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Description
Nicotiana Attenuata, also known as coyote tobacco, is a species of flowering plant in the nightshade family Solanaceae. It is native to western North America, ranging from British Columbia to California and eastward to Montana and New Mexico. This plant grows in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, chaparral, and coastal sage scrub.Nicotiana Attenuata is an upright herbaceous perennial that can grow up to 3 feet tall. It has large, dark green leaves that are ovate to lanceolate in shape and can grow up to 10 inches long. The flowers are tubular, with a pale green to yellow-green color and a sweet fragrance. They bloom from late spring to early fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Solanales |
| Family | Solanaceae |
| Genus | Nicotiana |
| Species | N. attenuata |
Appearance
Nicotiana Attenuata is a beautiful plant that can add color and fragrance to any garden. Its large, dark green leaves provide a nice background for the tubular, pale green to yellow-green flowers. The flowers can grow up to 2 inches long and are clustered in inflorescences at the end of the stems.The flowers of Nicotiana Attenuata open at night and are pollinated by moths, which are attracted to the sweet fragrance. The flowers also produce nectar, which provides a food source for other insects.
Care Guide
Nicotiana Attenuata is a relatively low-maintenance plant that requires little care once established. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:- Water: Nicotiana Attenuata prefers moist, well-draining soil. Water the plant regularly, especially during hot, dry weather.- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.- Soil: Nicotiana Attenuata grows best in fertile, well-draining soil. It can tolerate a range of soil types, as long as they are not too wet or too dry.- Sunlight: Nicotiana Attenuata prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but may not flower as well.- Hardiness Zones: Nicotiana Attenuata is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Like many plants, Nicotiana Attenuata is susceptible to certain pests and diseases. Here are some common ones to watch out for:- Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects can suck the sap from the leaves and stems of the plant, causing them to wilt and yellow. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control aphids.- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and stippling of the leaves. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.- Fusarium wilt: This fungal disease can cause the plant to wilt and die. There is no cure for fusarium wilt, so infected plants should be removed and destroyed.- Tobacco mosaic virus: This viral disease can cause mottling and distortion of the leaves. There is no cure for tobacco mosaic virus, so infected plants should be removed and destroyed.
Habitat
Nicotiana Attenuata is native to western North America and can be found in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, chaparral, and coastal sage scrub. It prefers well-drained soils and can tolerate a range of temperatures, from hot and dry to cool and moist.In its native habitat, Nicotiana Attenuata is an important plant for native pollinators, providing a food source for moths and other insects.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Nicotiana Attenuata toxic?
A: Yes, Nicotiana Attenuata contains nicotine and other toxic alkaloids. It should not be ingested by humans or animals.
Q: Can Nicotiana Attenuata be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Nicotiana Attenuata can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: How often should Nicotiana Attenuata be fertilized?
A: Nicotiana Attenuata should be fertilized every 4-6 weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Does Nicotiana Attenuata attract hummingbirds?
A: No, Nicotiana Attenuata is primarily pollinated by moths.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Nicotiana Attenuata:- Nicotiana Acuminata- Nicotiana Alata- Nicotiana Glauca- Nicotiana Rustica- Nicotiana Tabacum
References
– “Nicotiana Attenuata.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b590.- “Nicotiana Attenuata.” PlantNet. https://www.plantnet.org/project/plant/detail.php?plantid=2371.- “Nicotiana Attenuata.” UC Berkeley. https://ucjeps.berkeley.edu/eflora/eflora_display.php?tid=33597.
