Mirabilis Jalapa Stock Photography

Mirabilis jalapa, the wonder of Peru or four hours in bloom, is the most commonly grown ornamental species of the mirabilis plant, and it is available in a variety of colors. Mirabilis in Latin means wonderful and Jalapa or Xalapa is the capital of the state of Veracruz in Mexico. Mirabilis jalapa was cultivated by the Aztecs for medicinal and ornamental purposes.The flowers usually open from late afternoon or dusk i.e. between 4 and 8 am, giving rise to one of their common names. The flowers then produce a strong, sweet-smelling fragrance throughout the night, then close for good in the morning. New flowers open the next day.