Mixed four-o’clocks, Mirabilis jalapa, produce summer trumpet-shaped flowers in varied colours, opening in late afternoon and adding fragrance to the evening garden. The leafy clumps grow approximately 50 cm tall. Each package contains three tuberous roots; colours and their distribution vary from plant to plant.

Plant in spring after the risk of frost, in full sun and fertile, well-drained soil. Set the roots approximately 10 cm deep and about 30 cm apart, then water in. Keep the soil moderately moist while the plants establish without waterlogging.

Grow them near a patio to enjoy the evening flowers or in a colourful border. In colder Canadian regions they are generally grown as annuals; they may also self-seed when seeds are allowed to ripen. Do not eat any part of the plant, particularly the toxic seeds, and keep them away from children and pets.