What Is Nicotiana?

Characteristics

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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.