Tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum)
Care, watering, light and tips for Tobacco on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Solanaceae
- Difficulty: Moderate care
- Watering: every 3 days
- Light: Full sun
- Temperature: 10–35 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Tobacco
Nicotiana tabacum, commonly known as tobacco, is an annual herbaceous plant from the Solanaceae family, primarily cultivated for its leaves. It features large, bright green oval leaves and tubular pink or white flowers, clustered in racemes. Although its main use is industrial, it can be grown as an ornamental plant in gardens to add an exotic touch and large foliage, especially in borders or flowerbeds.
Native range
South America, specifically in the Andean region of what is now Bolivia and Peru.
Care tips
It requires full sun for optimal growth and fertile, well-drained soil rich in organic matter. Watering should be regular, keeping the substrate consistently moist but not waterlogged, especially during active growth periods. Avoid excessive nitrogen fertilization if you seek abundant flowering, as this will promote leaf growth at the expense of flowers. A common mistake is not providing enough space, which can limit its development.
How to save a dying Tobacco
- Warning signs
- Yellow, wilting leaves, soft stem, rot at the base.
- First aid
- Remove dead leaves, stop watering, check drainage. If sun, move to partial shade.
- What kills it
- Overwatering and poor drainage, leading to root rot.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if rot is not advanced and watering is corrected.