Contents
Description
Nicotiana Alata, commonly known as the flowering tobacco plant, is a species of tobacco plant that originated from South America. This annual plant is grown for its beautiful and fragrant flowers that bloom in the evening, attracting pollinators such as moths and hummingbirds. The flowers come in a range of colors, including white, pink, red, and purple, and can grow up to 3 inches in diameter.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Solanales |
| Family | Solanaceae |
| Genus | Nicotiana |
Appearance
The Nicotiana Alata plant can grow up to 6 feet tall and 2 feet wide. The stems are sturdy and covered in sticky hairs, while the leaves are large, oval-shaped, and slightly hairy. The flowers are trumpet-shaped and bloom in clusters at the top of the stems. They open in the evening and release a sweet fragrance that attracts pollinators. The fruit of the plant is a capsule that contains hundreds of small seeds.
Care Guide
Nicotiana Alata requires moderate care and attention to grow and flourish. Here are some care tips:- Water: The plant needs regular watering, especially during the hot and dry season. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining, fertile soil that is rich in organic matter.- Sunlight: The plant thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: Nicotiana Alata grows best in hardiness zones 10-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Nicotiana Alata is susceptible to various pests and diseases, including:- Aphids: These tiny insects feed on the plant’s sap, causing yellowing and curling of the leaves.- Spider mites: These pests cause yellowing and stippling of the leaves and produce fine webbing on the plant.- Tobacco mosaic virus: This disease causes mottling and distortion of the leaves, stunting of the plant, and reduced flower production.
Habitat
Nicotiana Alata is native to South America but is now widespread in many parts of the world. It grows best in warm and humid climates, and it can be found in gardens, parks, and natural areas.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Nicotiana Alata be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Nicotiana Alata can be grown indoors as long as it receives enough sunlight and is planted in well-draining soil.
Q: How long does Nicotiana Alata take to bloom?
A: Nicotiana Alata usually blooms in about 3-4 months after sowing the seeds.
Q: How often should Nicotiana Alata be fertilized?
A: Nicotiana Alata should be fertilized every two weeks during the growing season.
Q: Can Nicotiana Alata be grown from cuttings?
A: Yes, Nicotiana Alata can be propagated from stem cuttings taken in the summer.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Nicotiana Alata:- Nicotiana Suaveolens- Nicotiana Sylvestris- Nicotiana Tabacum- Nicotiana Glauca
References
– “Nicotiana Alata – Plant Finder.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=280392- “Nicotiana Alata.” Royal Horticultural Society. https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/13210/nicotiana-alata/details- “Nicotiana Alata: How to Grow and Care for Flowering Tobacco Plants.” Epic Gardening. https://www.epicgardening.com/nicotiana-alata/
