Flowering tobacco (Nicotiana alata)

Also known as: Sweet tobacco, Persian tobacco

Flowering tobacco (Nicotiana alata) originates from regions in South America, particularly Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay, and Argentina. Unlike its well-known relative used for smoking, this plant is mainly grown for its fragrant and colorful flowers, which can be red, pink, yellow, white, or lime green. It’s important to keep it separate from other nightshade plants to prevent the spread of viral infections.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Flowering tobacco

Lifespan

Perennial, Annual, Biennial

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

60 cm

Spread

25 cm

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

2.5 cm to 5 cm

Flower Color

White Green Yellow Red Pink Purple

Images of Flowering tobacco

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.

Scientific Classification of Flowering tobacco

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Nightshades, bindweeds, gooseweeds, and allies

Family

Nightshade

Genus

Tobacco plants

Species

Flowering tobacco

Planting and Growing of Flowering tobacco

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 4 days

Sunlight Requirements

Partial sun

Sunshine Duration

4-6 hours

Ideal Temperature

68-77℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Terracotta

How to Water Flowering tobacco?

When watering Nicotiana alata, ensure that the soil is thoroughly moistened, allowing excess water to drain out. The soil should be damp to approximately 10 centimeters deep, which typically requires around 500 ml of water. However, adjust this amount depending on the plant's size and the pot's drainage capacity.

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What are the symptoms of an overwatered Flowering tobacco? ›

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What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Flowering tobacco?

Sunlight Requirements: Partial sun

Duration of light: 4 to 6 hours

This plant prefers partial sunlight, benefiting from 4 to 6 hours of sunlight daily. Availing this ideal light ensures robust growth and enhances the flowering potential, leading to a more attractive and healthy Nicotiana alata.

What is the best type of sunlight for Nicotiana alata? ›

How can I ensure the plant receives ideal lighting? ›

What benefits does ideal lighting provide to Nicotiana alata? ›

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What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Flowering tobacco?

Ideal Temperature: 68 ~ 77℉

Nicotiana alata thrives best in temperatures ranging from 68°F to 77°F. This ideal range supports optimal photosynthesis, leaf development, and flowering. Maintaining these temperatures ensures the plant's metabolism functions efficiently, leading to vibrant blooms and healthy growth.

What Soil is Best for Flowering tobacco?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam, Sandy soil

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

The ideal soil for Nicotiana alata should efficiently drain excess water, preventing root rot. Well-draining soils support healthy root systems by maintaining necessary moisture levels without waterlogging, enhancing plant vigor. This plant thrives in soils rich in organic matter and nutrients, promoting robust growth and abundant flowering. Using compost or organic fertilizers can enhance soil fertility, providing essential nutrients for development. Soil with good aeration ensures that roots receive adequate oxygen, crucial for their function and growth. Loamy and sandy loam soils typically provide the right balance between air space and moisture retention. More About Soil→

How to Fertilize Flowering tobacco?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Nicotiana alata, use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength. Apply approximately 1-2 tablespoons per plant to avoid over-fertilization. Adjust according to plant size and growth rate. More About Fertilizing Techniques→

How to Prune Flowering tobacco?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer, Autumn

Begin by examining the plant for dead or spent flowers. Gently pinch or cut these back to the nearest leaf node to encourage ongoing flowering and tidy appearance. Identify any overgrown or leggy stems. Use clean, sharp tools to cut these back by one-third, helping the plant to maintain a compact, manageable shape. Prune regularly to maintain the shape you desire, ensuring good airflow throughout the foliage to reduce the risk of mold and pests. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Flowering tobacco plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early Summer

Begin by filling seed trays with a light, well-draining potting mix. Scatter Nicotiana alata seeds over the surface and lightly cover them with a thin layer of soil. Water gently and maintain consistent moisture. Place trays in a warm, bright area but out of direct sunlight to promote germination in 10-14 days.

Select healthy, non-flowering stems for cuttings that are about 4-6 inches long. Using clean, sharp pruning shears, make a cut just below a node. Remove the lower leaves, leaving only a few at the top. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder to encourage faster root development.

Prepare pots with a mix of sand and peat for good drainage. Make small holes in the mix and insert the cut end of your prepared cuttings. Firm the mix around them and water lightly. Cover with a plastic bag or a propagator lid to create a humid environment that aids root growth.

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How to Repot Flowering tobacco plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 1-2 years

Repot Nicotiana alata when it shows signs of becoming root-bound or when the growth appears stunted despite good care. The ideal time is in spring or summer when the plant is actively growing, which helps it recover faster from the stress of repotting.

Select a pot that is one size larger than the current one, ideally terracotta or ceramic with drainage holes. This ensures proper root expansion and adequate drainage, preventing root rot and promoting healthy growth.

Choose a well-draining potting mix rich in organic matter. A mix with peat moss, perlite, and compost is ideal. This combination allows for moisture retention while providing essential nutrients to support the plant's growth.

Toxicity of Flowering tobacco

Is Flowering tobacco toxic to humans?

Flowering tobacco exhibits a moderate level of toxicity in humans, mainly through ingestion. The whole plant, which includes its leaves, stems, and flowers, contains nicotine, the primary substance responsible for its harmful effects. Even small amounts of nicotine, when ingested, can result in various symptoms. Initially, affected individuals may show signs of nausea, vomiting, and abdominal discomfort. As the level of toxicity increases, symptoms may intensify to include headaches, dizziness, and in severe instances, increased heart rate and breathing difficulties. Given that nicotine is found throughout flowering tobacco, every part of the plant poses a risk if consumed, necessitating precautions to avoid unintentional ingestion, particularly among children and pets.

Is Flowering tobacco toxic to cat?

Flowering tobacco exhibits a moderate toxicity level for cats. Should a cat accidentally consume any part of this plant, it may suffer from nicotine poisoning due to the presence of this harmful substance throughout the entire plant. Cats that come into contact with flowering tobacco may show indications of distress, and they may exhibit symptoms of illness or pain, which necessitate urgent veterinary care. Prompt action is crucial to ensure the health and safety of the affected cat.

Is Flowering tobacco toxic to dog?

Flowering tobacco presents a moderate toxic risk for dogs. Canines might unintentionally consume various parts of the plant, which could lead to possible poisoning. All parts of the plant are harmful, and ingestion may trigger symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, restlessness, lethargy, irregular heart rate, muscle tremors, seizures, or potentially fatal outcomes if not addressed swiftly. Nicotine is the compound responsible for these negative effects. Dog owners should remain alert and ensure their pets do not have access to flowering tobacco. If a dog is believed to have ingested any portion of the flowering tobacco, it is vital to obtain immediate veterinary assistance.

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.

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