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Description
Nicotiana Obtusifolia, commonly known as the desert tobacco or wild tobacco, is a flowering plant species that belongs to the family Solanaceae. It is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico, growing in arid and desert regions. The plant has a strong fragrance and is often used in traditional medicine and as a natural insecticide.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Solanales |
| Family | Solanaceae |
| Genus | Nicotiana |
Appearance
Nicotiana Obtusifolia is an annual or biennial plant that can grow up to 3 feet tall. It has a branching stem covered in sticky hairs and large, waxy leaves that are oval-shaped and up to 10 inches long. The plant produces tubular flowers that are white, green, or yellowish-green in color and bloom from late spring to early fall. The flowers are followed by small, round, and brownish-black seeds that are enclosed in a capsule.
Care Guide
Nicotiana Obtusifolia is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to grow. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:- Water: The plant prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate dry conditions. Water once a week or whenever the soil feels dry.- Fertilization: Use a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.- Soil: Use a sandy or loamy soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5.- Sunlight: The plant thrives in full sun to partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: Nicotiana Obtusifolia is hardy in USDA zones 8 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Nicotiana Obtusifolia is susceptible to some pests and diseases, including:- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the plant, causing distorted growth and yellowing leaves.- Spider mites: These tiny pests can also suck the sap from the plant and cause yellowing leaves and webbing.- Tobacco mosaic virus: This viral disease can cause mottled or distorted leaves and stunted growth.To prevent these problems, make sure to keep the plant healthy and well-watered, remove any infested leaves or plant parts, and use insecticidal soap or neem oil if necessary.
Habitat
Nicotiana Obtusifolia is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico, where it grows in dry and desert regions. It thrives in sandy or loamy soil and can tolerate hot and dry conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Nicotiana Obtusifolia be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as they have good drainage and are large enough to accommodate the plant’s size.
Q: Can Nicotiana Obtusifolia be grown from seeds?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown from seeds sown directly in the soil in the spring or started indoors in the winter.
Q: Is Nicotiana Obtusifolia toxic?
A: Yes, the plant contains nicotine and other toxic alkaloids that can be harmful if ingested. It should not be consumed by humans or pets.
Q: Does Nicotiana Obtusifolia attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the plant’s tubular flowers are attractive to bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Related Plants
– Nicotiana alata- Nicotiana sylvestris- Nicotiana tabacum- Nicotiana rustica
References
– “Nicotiana obtusifolia.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=e869.- “Nicotiana obtusifolia.” Plant Information Center, University of California, Berkeley, plantinfo.berkeley.edu/Plant_Taxa/Nicotiana_obtusifolia.shtml.- “Desert Tobacco: Nicotiana obtusifolia.” Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, www.desertmuseum.org/books/nhsd_desert_tobacco.php.
