Desert Wishbone
Mirabilis laevis
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Details & Attributes
| Plant Type(s) | Perennial |
| Native to Arizona | Yes! |
| Water Needs | Low |
| Sun | Full sun, partial shade |
| Pollinators | Butterflies, moths |
| Has Spines | No |
| Size In relative feet, width by height |
1-2' × 2-3' |
| Freeze Tolerant | Yes |
| Flowering Season | November-March |
| Flower Color | White/pink |
| Minimum Temperature Range | 15 °F |
| Leaf Description | Opposite, rounded triangles |
| Fruit | Spherical pod |
| View on SEINet | View SEINet Entry |
| Range Map | View SEINet Range Map |
| Elevation Range | 500-7000 ft. |
| Description | This small plant occurs across most of western Arizona on arroyo edges and rocky foothills of arid mountain ranges. In spring and summer this drought tolerant species becomes covered in white/pink blooms which are out at night and early morning, closing by midday. Desert wishbone typically ends up forming a small mound, and could be interplanted with other xeric wildflowers and cacti such as desert zinnia (Zinnia acerosa), globe mallow (Sphaeralcea ambigua), and red barrels (Ferocactus spp.). Add this plant to a cactus patch or mixed wildflower garden and enjoy its delicate blossoms. Plants will die back to their roots in the summer. |
