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Description
Nicotiana Acuminata Var. Multiflora, commonly known as the Wild Tobacco plant, is a species of flowering plant in the nightshade family. This annual herbaceous plant is native to South and Central America and can grow up to 1.5 meters in height. The plant produces white, tubular flowers that bloom in the summer and have a sweet fragrance. The leaves of the plant are ovate and can vary in size from 5-40cm in length.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Solanales |
| Family | Solanaceae |
| Genus | Nicotiana |
| Species | Acuminata |
| Variety | Multiflora |
Appearance
The Nicotiana Acuminata Var. Multiflora plant has a slender stem that is covered in sticky hairs. Its leaves are a bright green color and can vary in size from 5-40cm in length. The flowers of the plant are white and tubular, with a sweet fragrance. They bloom in the summer and can grow up to 6cm in length. The plant produces small, round, and brown seeds that are enclosed in a capsule.
Care Guide
Wild Tobacco plants require well-draining soil and full sun to grow properly. They prefer moist soil but can tolerate short periods of drought. The plants need to be fertilized with a balanced fertilizer every four to six weeks during the growing season. They are hardy in USDA hardiness zones 10-11 and should be protected from frost.
Water
The plant prefers moist soil but can tolerate short periods of drought. Water the plant when the soil is dry to the touch, and avoid overwatering.
Fertilization
The plant needs to be fertilized with a balanced fertilizer every four to six weeks during the growing season. Use a slow-release fertilizer to avoid over-fertilization.
Soil
The plant requires well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Add compost or well-rotted manure to the soil to improve its fertility and drainage.
Sunlight
The plant requires full sun to grow properly. It should be placed in an area that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight per day.
Hardiness Zones
The plant is hardy in USDA hardiness zones 10-11 and should be protected from frost.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Nicotiana Acuminata Var. Multiflora plant is susceptible to pests such as aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites. It can also be affected by diseases such as mosaic virus and bacterial wilt. To prevent these problems, keep the plant healthy by providing proper care and promptly remove any infected plants.
Habitat
The Nicotiana Acuminata Var. Multiflora plant is native to South and Central America and can be found in countries such as Argentina, Bolivia, and Peru. It grows in open fields, along roadsides, and in disturbed areas.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Nicotiana Acuminata Var. Multiflora plant toxic?
A: Yes, the plant is toxic when ingested and should not be consumed.
Q: Can the plant be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown indoors if provided with enough sunlight and proper care.
Q: How long does it take for the plant to flower?
A: The plant blooms in the summer and can take up to two months to flower.
Q: Can the plant be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, the plant can be propagated from cuttings taken in the spring or summer. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in well-draining soil.
Related Plants
- Nicotiana Alata
- Nicotiana Sylvestris
- Nicotiana Tabacum
References
- “Nicotiana Acuminata.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=290141.
- “Nicotiana Acuminata Multiflora.” Plantzafrica.com, www.plantzafrica.com/plantnop/nicacumult.htm.
- “Nicotiana Acuminata Multiflora.” Kew Science, Kew Royal Botanic Gardens, www.kew.org/science/tropamerica/nicotiana-acuminata-multiflora.
