Lemon Swirl Four O'clock is a sun-loving heirloom flower that brings drama to summer and fall gardens with blooms that open in late afternoon, their name capturing the plant's signature four o'clock flowering habit. This variety reaches 24 to 36 inches tall and wide, thriving in full sun across hardiness zones 8 and beyond. From seed to bloom takes roughly 84 days, rewarding patient gardeners with flowers from June through November. Its drought tolerance and deep tuberose roots mean it actually prefers drier conditions once established, making it a natural choice for gardeners working with water-wise landscapes.
1
Full Sun
Moderate
8-8
36in H x 24in W
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High
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The lemon yellow coloration combined with deep crimson striping creates a striking bicolor effect that deepens as temperatures cool in fall. Four O'clocks earned their name because their tubular flowers reliably open in late afternoon and close by morning, creating a daily rhythm of blooming that feels almost magical in real time. Once established, these plants shrug off drought and heat, rewarding you with abundant flowers for months on end without fussy watering schedules or constant deadheading.
Four O'clocks are grown primarily as ornamental flowers for borders, containers, and cottage gardens. Their tall, airy habit works well in the middle or back of flower beds, and their long bloom window from summer into fall makes them reliable seasonal color. The flowers attract hummingbirds and other pollinators throughout the season, drawing life and movement into the garden.
No timeline data available yet for this variety.
Start seeds indoors in pots 6 to 8 weeks before your last spring frost, keeping soil at 70°F. Sow seeds at a depth of 1/4 to 1/2 inch and expect sprouting in 5 to 30 days.
Transplant seedlings outdoors after your last spring frost date once they're established. Harden off plants before moving them to the garden.
Direct sowing is recommended. Sow seeds outdoors 1 week after your last spring frost date at a depth of 1/4 to 1/2 inch.
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