Flowering tobacco - Nicotiana alata (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Flowering tobacco

Also known as: Sweet tobacco, Persian tobacco

Flowering tobacco (Nicotiana alata) is native to Central and South America. Unlike its more famous cousin, flowering tobacco is primarily used as a fragrant ornamental flower. The blooms can come in shades of red, pink, yellow, white, or lime green. Flowering tobacco should be kept away from other plants of the nightshade family due to the potential to transfer a viral infection.

Scientific classification

Species

Flowering tobacco (Nicotiana alata)

Nightshades, bindweeds, gooseweeds, and allies

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Perennial, Annual, Biennial

Lifespan

25 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

2.5 cm to 5 cm

Flower Size

White, Green, Yellow, Red, Pink, Purple

Flower Color

Green, Yellow

Stem Color

Non-dormant

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Summer, Fall

Growth Season

Images of Flowering tobacco

Distribution of Flowering tobacco

Distribution Map

Flowering tobacco is indigenous to parts of South America and has been introduced to a wide range of regions spanning continents such as Africa, Asia, Europe, Oceania, and the Americas. Its adaptability has allowed it to be cultivated in various locations outside its native range, thriving in a variety of climates and conditions.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Disturbed areas

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

Flowering tobacco is a versatile plant that is often grown in both containers and flower beds. Its vibrant, long-blooming flowers contrast nicely with the deep green foliage, and you can choose flowers of fragrant creamy white or non-fragrant red which can last across two seasons.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Flowering tobacco, including the following common varieties :

Flowering tobacco 'Grandiflora'Flowering tobacco 'Lime Green'

Toxicity

Flowering tobacco contains nicotine, making it moderately toxic to humans, cats, and dogs if ingested. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, headache, dizziness, and in severe cases, rapid heartbeat and respiratory issues in humans; physical discomfort in cats; vomiting, diarrhea, hyperactivity, and seizures in dogs. Immediate veterinary care is essential for affected pets.

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Quickly Identify Flowering tobacco

Trumpet-shaped blooms with velvety texture, opening in the evening.

Flowers ranging from white and pink to red, up to 3 inches (7.6 cm) long.

Distinctive tubular flowers in lime green, red, white, or yellow colors.

Small capsules, about 0.08 inches (2 mm), split open to release dust-like seeds.

Variable leaf sizes, with basal leaves up to 12 inches (30 cm) long and upper leaves smaller.

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Care Guide for Flowering tobacco

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Flowering tobacco thrives in warm, semi-arid regions, preferring moderate moisture without being waterlogged. Weekly watering is sufficient, and mulching aids in moisture retention and temperature regulation during the growing season, supporting its health and ornamental qualities.

Fertilize: Fertilize flowering tobacco every 2-3 weeks during the growing season with high phosphorus fertilizer at 1/4 strength to enhance blooming. Avoid over-fertilization. In cooler seasons, reduce frequency. Use granular or liquid forms, distributing evenly at the base, and water thoroughly post-application for absorption.

Pruning: Flowering tobacco thrives with pruning from early spring to late winter, focusing on dead stem removal, leggy growth reduction, and deadheading for continuous blooms. This practice improves airflow, minimizes disease, and enhances growth. Use sharp, sterilized tools and time pruning to align with the plant's growth cycle.

Propagation: Flowering tobacco is an ornamental plant ideal for borders and containers, known for its fragrant, trumpet-shaped flowers. Propagation involves a well-drained mix, warmth for germination, and careful moisture management. Gentle handling of seedlings during transplanting ensures healthy establishment and blooming.

Repotting: The plant flowering tobacco requires excellent drainage when planted in pots to thrive effectively. Ensuring proper drainage prevents waterlogging, which is crucial for the health and growth of flowering tobacco.

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Images of Flowering tobacco

Distribution of Flowering tobacco

Culture

Cultivars

Toxicity

Quickly Identify Flowering tobacco

Care Guide for Flowering tobacco

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