Indian tobacco (Lobelia inflata)

Indian tobacco

Indian tobacco (Lobelia inflata) is an annual or biennial herbaceous plant native to the United States and Canada. It can flourish in areas that humans have polluted, such as roadsides, dump sites, and fallowed fields. Indian tobacco can have toxic effects on the body if consumed in large amounts, a fact that has led to another common name: pukeweed.

Scientific classification

Species

Indian tobacco (Lobelia inflata)

Asters bellflowers fanflowers and allies

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Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

Weeds

Weed or not

Annual, Biennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Summer, Fall

Bloom Time

2.5 cm

Flower Size

Brown

Fruit Color

Blue, Purple, Pink

Flower Color

Green

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Indian tobacco

Distribution of Indian tobacco

Distribution Map

Indian tobacco is originally indigenous to the eastern and south-central regions of North America. The species has spread beyond its natural range and became introduced to parts of Northern and Central Europe as well as East Asia. Indian tobacco now enjoys a presence across different continents, finding new habitats in temperate zones.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Meadows, fields, roadsides, waste places, open woods

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

The stunning and unusual blue flowers of indian tobacco create an eye-catching addition to garden borders, woodland gardens, and pollinator-friendly gardens. This low-growing plant is also valuable as a groundcover and a spiller in outdoor, herbal container gardens where its cheerful blooms are likely to attract hummingbirds.

Symbolism

Healing, Purification

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Toxicity

Indian tobacco is mildly to severely toxic to humans, causing symptoms such as headaches, vomiting, and nausea. Ingesting any part of indian tobacco can poison cats and dogs, leading to symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, and excessive drooling. Prompt veterinary care is essential if pets show signs of poisoning. Large doses can be fatal for humans and pets. Stay vigilant and keep indian tobacco out of reach.

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Care Guide for Indian tobacco

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Originating from moderately moist environments, indian tobacco requires consistent hydration without waterlogging. It thrives in evenly moist soil and benefits from weekly watering. During its active growing season, adjust the watering regimen to meet increased metabolic activity and transpiration rates.

Fertilize: To promote healthy growth in indian tobacco, use balanced-nutrition fertilizers, particularly high-nitrogen during vegetative stages. Start with monthly applications, tapering to bi-monthly. Apply diluted solutions to prevent root burn, adjusting feeding frequency seasonally. Water indian tobacco prior to fertilizing for better nutrient uptake.

Pruning: Indian tobacco has unique inflated seed capsules and serrated leaves. Prune in early to late spring to foster new growth and remove dead stems. Thinning enhances air circulation and reduces disease, promoting a bushier plant suitable for ornamental and medicinal uses. Use clean tools to avoid infection.

Propagation: Propagation of indian tobacco is best achieved by sowing seeds in Spring, requiring moderate difficulty. Key indicators of success include emerging seedlings and vibrant foliage. Effective seed stratification is essential for enhancing germination rates.

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Images of Indian tobacco

Distribution of Indian tobacco

Culture

Toxicity

Care Guide for Indian tobacco

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