The Belle de Nuit flower, also known as Mirabilis jalapa or the "four o'clock flower," is a fascinating and vibrant plant native to tropical South America but has been cultivated widely in gardens around the world. This perennial features bushy, spreading foliage and trumpet-shaped flowers in a variety of colors including pink, red, yellow, white, and striped patterns. The flowers typically open late in the afternoon, around four o’clock, hence their common name, and they remain open through the night until morning.
Belle de Nuit has a unique and enchanting scent profile. The fragrance is sweet and floral, with a subtle complexity. It exudes a delicate aroma similar to that of jasmine or hyacinth, with hints of vanilla or almond, making it particularly noticeable during the evening and early night hours. This delightful fragrance serves to attract nocturnal pollinators such as moths, playing a crucial role in the plant’s reproductive cycle. The enchanting scent, combined with its colorful and prolific blooms, makes Belle de Nuit a popular choice for night gardens and spaces where evening fragrance and ambiance are desired.