Winged Four O'clock-Mirabilis alipes

A plant that looks a bit out of place in the desert foothills with its large leaves and big, pink flowers is Winged Four O'clock (Mirabilis alipes). This is a member of the Four O'clock Family (Nyctaginaceae). This is a night bloomer, hence the name, although the flowers start opening late in the afternoon and sometimes stay open on cloudy days. 

The flowers are funnel shaped, with yellow stamen emerging. During the day the flowers crumple up and look wilted.

For more information about winged four o'clock and other Mirabilis species, click here.

Fragrant White Sand Verbena-Abronia elliptica

A small plant with a ball of flowers emerging from the stem looks different from many of the families we've looked at. This is Fragrant White Sand Verbena (Abronia elliptica), and it's in Four O'clock Family (Nyctaginaceae).

The plant grows in sandy soils, and the flowers will open even more.

For more information about fragrant white sand verbena and some excellent photos, click here.