Nicotiana glauca

Nicotiana glauca, more commonly referred to as tree tobacco, is a perennial shrub or tree native to South America.  Growing to heights of 23 ft / 7 m, tree tobacco has a vertical, bushy growth habit, making it a great landscaping choice for ornamental stand-alone trees.  Rubbery, silvery-green leaves grow in an alternate pattern along the plant's stalks and are coated with a thick, waxy layer.  Tree tobacco plants produce long, tubular, yellow or cream-colored flowers that terminate with five lobes resembling petals at their opening.  Though the entire plant contains toxins, the tree tobacco plant is still used in herbal medicines and is even smoked by some Native American groups.  When choosing a spot for planting tree tobacco, be mindful of the danger that ingested leaves can expose individuals to a potentially fatal toxin.  Many areas consider the tree tobacco plant to be invasive, so make sure to check with your local legislation and plant responsibly.  

Provide tree tobacco with a location that receives copious amounts of sunlight throughout the majority of the day to promote vigorous growth, though they are also tolerant of shadier conditions.  Any rich, well-draining soil mix is adequate for growing tree tobacco, as it is rather resourceful and capable of growing in most mediums.  Regular weekly waterings can help to establish young plants, though they should become less frequent as they mature.  Tree tobacco grows readily from seed, though it requires light exposure to germinate and should be kept in a sunny spot when started in containers.  Fertilizing should not be necessary if planted in rich soil, though they can be given a small dose of slow-release fertilizer in spring to promote vigorous blooming.  Learn more in the Plant Story community!

3-6 hours of sun per day, with protection from intense mid-day sun

Water sparingly, allowing the mix to nearly dry out between watering.

Nicotiana Glauca

Nicotiana glauca

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