Have you ever wondered about flowers that bloom during the day and close at night? There is a wide range of purple flowers that close at night, and they add a beautiful touch to any garden.
What Are Purple Flowers That Close at Night?
Definition of Purple Flowers That Close at Night
Purple flowers that close at night are a type of flowering plant that produce flower heads that close during the evening and open again in the morning.
This process is known as nyctinasty. Flowers that perform nyctinasty are often white or light-colored, but many purple flowers also close at night.
Types of Purple Flowers That Close at Night
There are many different types of purple flowers that close at night. Some of the most popular include trumpet-shaped flowers and bell-shaped flowers.
The shade of purple can vary, from light purple to deep purple flowers.
Some of the common names for these flowers include lavender flowers, night phlox, and evening primrose.
Why Do Purple Flowers Close at Night?
Plants that close their flowers at night do it for various reasons. Some flowers, like morning glories and moonflowers, have evolved to attract nocturnal pollinators such as moths.
Closing their blooms during the day allows the flowers to conserve energy and attract the right pollinators.
Other flowers, like evening primrose, close at night to protect their delicate blooms from cold night temperatures and dew.
The movement of blooming nighttime flowers, such as night phlox, adds to their fragrant appeal.
How to Grow Purple Flowers That Close at Night?
Planting Purple Flowers That Close at Night
Purple flowers that close at night grow best when planted in early summer. When choosing a location for planting, consider planting in an area that provides some shade, as long periods of direct sunlight can stress the plants.
Also, make sure to provide adequate support for climbing plants as some of these flowers, such as the common morning glory, grow as vines.
Soil Needs for Purple Flowers That Close at Night
Purple flowers that close at night grow best in soils with good drainage. These plants need soil that doesn’t hold onto moisture for an extended period as this can promote root rot.
Soil drainage can be improved by amending soil beds with organic matter, such as compost or aged manure.
Light Requirements for Purple Flowers That Close at Night
Though purple flowering plants grow best in shaded areas, they still need some direct sunlight.
It’s important to find a balance between having too much shade, which can affect flower production, and too much sun, which can cause plant stress.
A few hours of direct sunlight in the early morning or late afternoon is ideal.
Most Popular Purple Flowers That Close at Night
Moonflower
Moonflower is a plant that produces beautiful, fragrant, white flowers that open up in the evening. These blooms are often 5-6 inches in diameter, and they stay open during the night and close in the morning. Moonflowers grow best in fertile, well-draining soil, and they need adequate support to grow as a vine.
Evening Primrose
The evening primrose is a plant that produces bell-shaped flowers that are typically yellow but can also be pink or white. This plant starts blooming in early summer and continues until early fall. The flowers usually close up in the morning but will remain open on cloudy days. It prefers a well-draining soil but can tolerate sandy or rocky soil.
Night Phlox
Night phlox is a plant that produces fragrant, tubular, bright purple flowers that open in the evening. It grows best in fertile soil with good drainage and needs full sun to partial shade. It is a popular choice for gardens and containers because of its fragrant blooms.
Tips for Caring for Purple Flowers That Close at Night
Watering Purple Flowers That Close at Night
Water purple flowers that close at night deeply and infrequently. Overwatering can cause root rot and other issues. It’s best to water these plants in the morning or early afternoon, so they have adequate moisture throughout the day.
Deadheading Purple Flowers That Close at Night
Deadhead regularly to promote growth and continuous blooming. Removing spent blooms encourages the plant to send out new flower buds, resulting in more colorful blooms throughout the growing season.
Fertilizing Purple Flowers That Close at Night
Fertilize purple flowering plants every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced, water-soluble, and organic fertilizer. This provides the necessary nutrients for strong, vibrant blooms and healthy foliage.
Conclusion
Summary of Benefits of Purple Flowers That Close at Night
Purple flowers that close at night, such as moonflowers, evening primrose and night phlox, offer a unique touch to gardens. These flowers add beauty and fragrance to any outdoor setting and attract nocturnal pollinators to the garden.
Final Thoughts on Growing Purple Flowers That Close at Night
Growing purple flowers that close at night may seem daunting, but with proper care and attention, these plants can flourish and bring beauty to any outdoor space.
Ensure that the soil has good drainage, can get light or partial sunlight, water deeply and infrequently, and watch out for pests.
With these tips, it’s easy to grow your own purple blooms and take advantage of the benefits that these flowering plants offer.
