Mirabilis multiflora

Mirabilis multiflora, also known as the Colorado four o'clock, is a species of flowering plant in the Nyctaginaceae family. It is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico, where it is found in a variety of habitats, including deserts, grasslands, and woodlands.

Description

Mirabilis multiflora is a perennial herb that grows up to 1 meter tall. The leaves are opposite, ovate to lanceolate, and up to 10 cm long. The flowers are tubular, up to 5 cm long, and bright magenta in color. They open in the late afternoon and close by morning, hence the common name "four o'clock". The fruit is a round, black achene.

Distribution and habitat

Mirabilis multiflora is native to the southwestern United States, including Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, and Utah, as well as northern Mexico. It is found in a variety of habitats, from deserts and grasslands to woodlands and scrublands. It prefers sandy or rocky soils and is often found on slopes and mesas.

Uses

The roots of Mirabilis multiflora have been used by Native American tribes for medicinal purposes. The Navajo used it as a diuretic and for treating venereal diseases, while the Hopi used it to treat skin disorders. The plant is also used in landscaping for its attractive flowers and drought tolerance.

Conservation

While Mirabilis multiflora is not currently considered threatened, its habitat is being lost to development and agriculture. Conservation efforts are focused on preserving its habitat and preventing overharvesting for medicinal use.

See also

• List of plants used in herbalism
• Flora of the Southwestern United States

This flora-related article is a stub. You can help WikiMD by expanding it.