NICOTIANA GLAUCA SEEDS

Nicotiana glauca

This peculiar species of tobacco is a subtropical tree. Though it may have traditional uses in its native Argentina, we cannot recommend them. It is considered an invasive noxious weed in several states and countries. Research is highly recommended before planting.

In cold winter climates, this species makes an impressive potted ornamental annual. Easily grown from seed, plants feature lush glaucous stems and foliage and bright yellow tubular flowers in pendant clusters that attract hummingbirds, moths and butterflies. Though it can ultimately grow to 20' in frost free areas, it will be delightfully stout and floriferous in its first year, sometimes blooming when it is a mere 1'.

Sow these seeds indoors in late winter to early spring: press seeds into moist soil; mist carefully with warm water; cover with plastic; kept at 75°F in bright light seeds will germinate within a week or two. Prick out seedlings once they have true leaves to grow on in individual 3" pots in bright light.

An extremely powerful organic insecticide may be procured from the foliage of this species, which curiously does not contain nicotine, but rather anabasine, a similarly toxic alkaloid. Careful research is recommended.

Some northern gardeners attempt to overwinter this species indoors, but it becomes fairly emaciated and unattractive in the second and subsequent years. Best as an annual. Very precocious plants will often bloom in a small nursery pot. Take care to keep self-sown seedlings from taking root in the earth.

Packet contains at least 100 seeds.