Tree tobacco
Nicotiana glauca · Solanaceae
The gardener's calendar
In autumn, ease off feeding and take the chance to clean up around tree tobacco and prepare for winter.
ID card
- Foliage
- Evergreen, grayish-green
- Flowering
- Summer to autumn, tubular flowers yellow or yellow-green
- Adult size
- 2 to 3 m in height, 1 to 1.5 m in width
- Growth
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Frost-tender, minimum 5°C
- Origin
- South America (Argentina, Bolivia)
- Soil type
- Well-drained, rather fertile
Care
Watering
Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged during active growth. Gradually reduce watering in winter, especially in temperate climates. Water at the base to avoid leaf moisture. Tree tobacco tolerates short periods of drought once established.
Light exposure
Place in full sun or sunny partial shade for generous flowering. South or west-facing exposure is ideal. Insufficient light slows growth and reduces flowering.
Pruning and cutting
Pinch young plants to encourage branching. Prune lightly after flowering to maintain a compact, dense shape. Remove dead or damaged wood. Pruning is not strictly necessary but improves appearance.
Soil and repotting
Use light, well-drained potting mix enriched with organic matter. Repot in spring every two years for potted plants. Avoid standing water which causes root rot.
Fertilizing
Apply balanced fertilizer monthly during the growing period (spring-autumn). Light potassium boost promotes flowering. Reduce applications in winter.
Diseases and pests
Watch for spider mites and whiteflies indoors. Powdery mildew can appear in overly humid, poorly ventilated environments. Improve air circulation and treat at first sign. Adequate drainage limits root diseases.
Did you know?
Nicotiana glauca is known for accumulating toxic alkaloids, particularly in its leaves and seeds, which were once used in certain cultures for traditional purposes. Its yellow tubular flowers attract hummingbirds and butterflies in subtropical zones, making it a highly valued ornamental plant for hot gardens despite its invasive status in some Mediterranean regions.
Where to buy it
Best planted in autumn so the roots settle in before summer, or in early spring once the frost has passed. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, October, November.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.