Mirabilis (plant)


Mirabilis is a genus of plants in the family Nyctaginaceae known as the four-o'clocks or umbrellaworts. The best known species may be Mirabilis jalapa, the plant most commonly called four o'clock.
There are several dozen species in the genus, of herbaceous plants, mostly found in the Americas. Some form tuberous roots that enable them to perennate through dry and cool seasons. They have small, often fragrant, deep-throated flowers.

Description

Raphides are found in at least the flower and in abundance in the leaves and stem of at least M. violacea. In all examined species, raphides were found in the root, leaves, calyx, corolla, and also, but smaller and more tender, in the stamens, pistil, ovary, ovule, spermoderm and seed-leaves.

Uses

Although best known as ornamental plants, at least one species, mauka, is grown for food.

Selected species