What Is Nicotiana?

Nicotiana is dramatic in appearance and simple to grow.

Members of the genus Nicotiana are varieties of the tobacco plant. Many species of tobacco are not actually appropriate for use in smoking materials, and are grown solely for their decorative value. The term "Nicotiana," when used in gardening circles, generally refers to one of these ornamental varieties; flowering tobacco has been a popular ornamental annual for generations. The flowers of this summer bloomer release their notable fragrance when they bloom in the evening.

Characteristics

Of all the colors Nicotiana offers, green is the most unusual.

There are many species of flowering tobacco, varying in height from 1 to 10 feet tall, according to the Fine Gardening website. The blossoms are tubular at the stem, opening dramatically to a nearly flat star shape at the opening. Its leaves are long, large and oval, and clustered towards the base of the stem. Nicotiana is famed for the fragrance of its blossoms, which open in the evening, in colors ranging from white to pink to red, yellow and even green flowers.

Preferred conditions

Rich soil in a sunny part of the garden guarantees success with Nicotiana.

The Gardener's Network website explains that Nicotiana grows best in soil that is fertile and moist, but not soaked; the plant requires a steady supply of water, particularly in hot weather, but it is not a fan of "wet feet." All varieties of tobacco flourish in full sun, but flowering tobacco will still bloom nicely in partial shade. Taller varieties of Nicotiana may require staking or some other form of support when they near full height, to prevent them from falling over under the weight of their blossoms.

Propagation

Nicotiana reproduce from seed so easily, they are sometimes mistaken for perennials.

Once Nicotiana it has been established, it will self-sow reliably enough that the plant is sometimes erroneously referred to as a perennial. Nicotiana seeds need light to sprout, so whether self-sown or human grown, they should not be covered with soil, but left on the surface. If the next growing season seems too far away, Nicotiana can also be started from cuttings.

Vulnerabilities

Hornworms pose little danger, simply because they are so easy to spot and remove.

Although every plant has its enemies, Nicotiana stands its ground against most. It will occasionally be attacked by the tobacco hornworm, a close relative of the tomato hornworm; however, they do not often go after flowering varieties, and their distinct appearance makes them difficult to miss. Aphids and fungi are the biggest threats to Nicotiana, though the plant responds well to standard treatment of either. If either impact other plants in the garden, treating Nicotiana with mild insecticide or fungicide is a wise preventative measure.

Birds and Animals

A bed of Nicotiana gives hummingbirds a reason to visit your garden regularly.

With their bright colors and tubular shapes, Nicotiana flowers are favorites of both hummingbirds and butterflies; try to plant them where you can keep a watch for visitors. Although Nicotiana is good for pollenators, it is poisonous to almost everyone else, since most parts of the plant contain nicotine; chew-prone pets and curious children (and adults) should be closely supervised when in the area.

References

• The Gardener's Network: Nicotania
• Fine Gardening Magazine: Plant Guide
• Better Homes and Garden Magazine: Plant Dictionary
• "Time Life Encyclopedia of Gardens: Annuals"; James Underwood Crockett; 1971