Flowering tobacco (Nicotiana alata)
Care, watering, light and tips for Flowering tobacco on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Solanaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 3 days
- Light: Full sun
- Temperature: 10–35 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Flowering tobacco
Nicotiana alata, commonly known as flowering tobacco or jasmine tobacco, is an annual or short-lived perennial plant cherished for its fragrant, pure white to greenish-pink tubular flowers that open in the evening. Its large, sticky leaves form a basal rosette from which tall flowering stems emerge. It is ideal for borders, beds, and night gardens, where its sweet fragrance can be fully appreciated.
Native range
South America (mainly Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay)
Care tips
It thrives in full sun to partial shade, especially in warmer climates, for vigorous growth and abundant flowering. Watering should be regular, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged, particularly during dry spells. Use a well-draining soil rich in organic matter, and fertilize moderately during the growing season. Avoid wetting the foliage when watering, as this can encourage fungal diseases.
How to save a dying Flowering tobacco
- Warning signs
- Yellow, soft leaves (overwatering); wilting, brown edges (underwatering/sun).
- First aid
- Check moisture. If waterlogged, repot. If dry, water gradually.
- What kills it
- Overwatering and poor drainage, causing root rot. Also prolonged drought.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if you act quickly and root damage isn't irreversible. It's quite resilient.