Aztec tobacco - Nicotiana rustica (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Aztec tobacco

Also known as: Small Tobacco , Brazilian Tobacco , Wild tobacco, Turkish tobacco

Aztec tobacco (Nicotiana rustica) is a very potent member of the tobacco family, likely native to South America. It has naturalized in the southeastern United States as a weed, and is cultivated in tropical and subtropical countries around the globe for use in pesticides, smoking, and snuff. This species is unusually high in nicotine, which is toxic in large amounts.

Scientific classification

Species

Aztec tobacco (Nicotiana rustica)

Nightshades, bindweeds, gooseweeds, and allies

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Annual

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Fall

Bloom Time

40 cm to 1.2 m

Plant Height

Semi-evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Aztec tobacco

Distribution of Aztec tobacco

Distribution Map

Aztec tobacco is native to Western South America and parts of the Middle East. This plant's range has significantly expanded, as it has been introduced to various regions across the globe including parts of Africa, Asia, Europe, and Oceania. Presently, aztec tobacco is also cultivated in some areas within these continents.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Waste places, open areas

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Care Guide for Aztec tobacco

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Originating from warm, semi-arid regions, aztec tobacco has moderate drought tolerance and requires weekly watering to maintain health. Thriving outdoors, it benefits from natural rainfall but needs increased irrigation during its active growing season, reflecting its adaptation to seasonal changes.

Fertilize: To promote healthy growth and flowering, aztec tobacco requires high-phosphorus fertilizer bi-monthly during active growth, reducing to monthly in cooler months. Use diluted liquid formulas following label guidelines, adjusting as aztec tobacco matures to prevent overfeeding, root burn, and environmental harm.

Pruning: Aztec tobacco is a robust plant with aromatic leaves. Prune in early to late spring for healthy growth and size control. Remove dead branches and thin crowded stems for air circulation. Clean tools to prevent infections; proper pruning enhances plant vitality and aesthetics.

Propagation: Aztec tobacco is propagated by sowing seeds on the soil surface, requiring light for germination. Use a well-draining mix and maintain moisture. Cover with plastic wrap for humidity. Transplant seedlings to individual pots or outdoors in full sunlight and fertile, well-drained soil.

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