Narrowleaf Four O'clock
Mirabilis linearis
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
12"–24" H × 12"–18" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AZ, CA, CO, CT and 13 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, moths
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Narrowleaf four o'clock is a compact perennial wildflower with slender leaves and small tubular flowers that open in late afternoon. This drought-tolerant native produces blooms from June through September in shades of pink, purple, or white. The plant forms neat, low mounds that work well in sunny, dry locations.
In an HOA neighborhood
Narrowleaf Four O'clock takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- May be perceived as too wild or weedy for front yard use
- Evening-blooming flowers may not provide daytime visual appeal
- Native wildflower appearance conflicts with traditional landscaping expectations
Wildlife value
The flowers attract bees, butterflies, and night-flying moths with their nectar. The evening blooming habit makes this particularly valuable for sphinx moths and other nocturnal pollinators.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does Narrowleaf Four O'clock fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.