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Sweet Tobacco

Nicotiana alata

Please keep in mind that it is illegal to uproot a plant without the landowner's consent and care should be taken at all times not to damage wild plants. Wild plants should never be picked for pleasure and some plants are protected by law.
For more information please download the BSBI Code of Conduct PDF document.

Contents

Plant Profile

Flowering Months:
JAN  FEB  MAR  APR  MAY  JUN  JUL  AUG  SEP  OCT  NOV  DEC
Order:
Solanales
Family:
Solanaceae (Nightshade)
Type:
Flower
Life Cycle:
Annual or Perennial
Maximum Size:
150 centimetres tall
Habitats:
Gardens, wasteland.

Flower:
֍
Variable in colour, 5 petals
 
Funnel-shaped, (usually) lime green flowers but other colours are often seen. The petals are arranged in the formation of a star. Flowers each measure about 5cm (2 inches) in length. Pollinated by bees, butterflies and moths.
Fruit:
The fruit is not of great significance. The seeds ripen from August to October.
Leaves:
Broadly spoon-shaped leaves, pointed at their ends. The leaves are alternate along the stems. Rarely encountered growing wild in the UK. Garden escape species. A short-lived perennial.
Aroma:
Pleasantly sweet-smelling.
Other Names:
Flowering Tobacco, Jasmine Tobacco, Nicotiana, Ornamental Tobacco, Persian Tobacco, Tobacco Plant, Winged Tobacco.
Frequency (UK):
Rarely seen  

Other Information

Summary

Nicotiana alata, also known as Winged Tobacco or Jasmine tobacco, is a species of annual flowering plant in the Solanaceae family. It is native to South America and is often grown as an ornamental plant. The plant has large green leaves, and produces large, fragrant, trumpet-shaped flowers that bloom in the evening, in shades of white, pink, red, or purple. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. The plant can grow up to 5 feet tall and it's hardy to USDA Zone 10. It can be propagated by seed or cuttings. It is a popular plant for adding fragrance to gardens, and is often used in cut flower arrangements.

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Sweet Tobacco (Nicotiana alata) is a species of flowering plant that belongs to the nightshade family (Solanaceae). It is native to South America and is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant in many countries around the world. The plant is commonly known for its fragrant flowers and is used in perfumes, scented oils, and candles.

Sweet Tobacco is a tall, herbaceous annual plant that grows up to 5 feet tall. It has large, green leaves and tubular, trumpet-shaped flowers that are available in various colors such as white, yellow, pink, and purple. The flowers of Sweet Tobacco are particularly fragrant at night, attracting pollinators like moths, hummingbirds, and bats.

The plant is very easy to grow and is suitable for a range of climates, from tropical to temperate. It thrives in full sun and well-drained soil and does not require any special care. In fact, Sweet Tobacco is known for its ability to tolerate hot and humid weather conditions. It can be grown from seed, cuttings, or transplants and can be propagated easily.

Sweet Tobacco is not only a beautiful plant but also has many medicinal properties. The leaves of the plant contain a high concentration of nicotine, which makes it useful as an insecticide. In traditional medicine, the leaves of Sweet Tobacco have been used to treat headaches, nausea, and indigestion. It is also believed to have sedative properties and can be used to help people relax and sleep better.

However, despite its many benefits, it is important to note that Sweet Tobacco is also toxic to humans and animals. The plant contains high levels of nicotine, which can cause serious health problems if ingested in large quantities. Therefore, it is important to handle Sweet Tobacco with caution and keep it away from children and pets.

Sweet Tobacco is a beautiful and fragrant plant that has many uses and benefits. It is easy to grow, attractive to pollinators, and has medicinal properties. However, it is important to handle it with caution due to its toxicity. If you are interested in growing this plant, make sure to plant it in a location where it will not be accessible to children and pets and always follow recommended growing guidelines.

Sweet Tobacco is a popular plant for landscaping and garden design. It is often used as a border plant, in containers, or as part of a mixed flower bed. When grown in mass, it creates a stunning display of fragrant flowers that are sure to catch the attention of anyone passing by.

In addition to its ornamental value, Sweet Tobacco is also a great plant for attracting wildlife to your garden. Its fragrant flowers attract a range of pollinators, including moths, hummingbirds, and bats, providing an important source of food and habitat for these species. By planting Sweet Tobacco in your garden, you can help to support local wildlife and create a healthy and diverse ecosystem.

Sweet Tobacco is also an important plant for fragrance production. Its fragrant leaves and flowers are used in the production of perfumes, scented oils, and candles. The sweet and floral scent of the plant makes it a popular ingredient in many beauty and personal care products.

In addition to its ornamental and fragrance uses, Sweet Tobacco is also used in research and development. The plant is being studied for its potential to produce biofuels and other renewable energy sources. The high concentration of nicotine in the leaves makes it a promising candidate for the production of bio-based chemicals and materials.

Sweet Tobacco is a versatile and valuable plant that has many uses and benefits. Whether you are looking to add fragrance and beauty to your garden, attract wildlife, or explore new sustainable energy sources, Sweet Tobacco is a great choice. With its easy care requirements and stunning beauty, it is a plant that is sure to bring joy and inspiration to any garden.

Sweet Tobacco is also a great plant for gardeners of all levels of experience. Its low maintenance requirements make it an ideal choice for beginners or those who don't have a lot of time to spend on gardening. Simply plant it in well-drained soil and give it plenty of sun, and it will thrive on its own.

Sweet Tobacco is also a great plant for cut flower arrangements. Its large, fragrant flowers make it a popular choice for bouquets and floral arrangements. When cut and brought indoors, the sweet fragrance of the flowers can help to refresh and brighten any room.

Another benefit of Sweet Tobacco is its ability to help purify the air. Like many other plants, it acts as a natural air purifier, removing harmful chemicals and pollutants from the air. By planting Sweet Tobacco in your home or office, you can help to improve indoor air quality and create a healthier and more comfortable environment.

Overall, Sweet Tobacco is a truly remarkable plant that has much to offer. Whether you are looking to add beauty, fragrance, or sustainability to your life, this plant is sure to deliver. So why not consider planting Sweet Tobacco in your garden today? You will not be disappointed!

In conclusion, Sweet Tobacco is a versatile and valuable plant that has many uses and benefits. Whether you are a seasoned gardener or just starting out, this plant is sure to bring joy and inspiration to your life.