Overview of Flowering Tobacco
Tobacco (Nicotiana spp.) is a large group of plants in the nightshade family (Solanaceae). A few species are quite attractive and have a long history of use as garden ornamentals. N. sylvestris, commonly called flowering tobacco, is one such species. It featuring large, dramatic leaves and showy, fragrant clusters of pendent white flowers that look like a burst of fireworks. Native to northwestern Argentina, this short-lived tender perennial is only hardy to zone 10 (although it may survive further north if protected) and grows so rapidly that it is generally used as an annual.
In Victorian gardens, flowering tobacco was planted along walkways and paths so that those strolling by could enjoy the fragrance of the flowers. In modern times it was given the Royal Horticultural Society’s Award of Garden Merit. Some additional common names include night scented tobacco, South American tobacco, and woodland tobacco. One of the more common cultivars is ‘Only the Lonely’, whose name supposedly refers to it being so tall that it stands out from everything else.
N. sylvestris grows quickly from seed, attaining a height of 3-5 feet and spreading up to 2 feet across at the base. Wide, oblong leaves up to 18 inches long are produced in a dense basal rosette. In partial shade, leaves will be much larger and deeper green than plants grown in full sun, which may look almost chartreuse. The rough-textured leaves are covered with glandular hairs, making them feel sticky, and may cause dermatitis in sensitive individuals. The bright green leaves have clasping or winged petioles, that surround the stem – these are most noticeable on the upper leaves. Leaves along the erect stem decrease in size advancing up the stem.
In midsummer the plant produces a central flower spike that grows rapidly several feet tall. The stems and root systems are strong enough that the plants can lean at severe angles without toppling over or requiring staking, although branches can break at the base in strong storms or under very windy conditions.
Pendant clusters of pure white to cream, tubular flowers are produced any time from June until the first frost. The main stem may be many-branched, producing multiple loose clusters of flowers. The flowers emit a strong, sweet, jasmine-like scent especially in the evening to attract their sphinx moth pollinators (although they probably are not required as plants exhibit high levels of self-pollination). Each flower has a long tube with a flared, star-shaped end. The flower clusters can be cut to use in fresh flower arrangements.
Copious amounts of tiny brown ovoid to kidney shaped seeds are produced from each pollinated flower, held in a rounded capsule surrounded by the persistent calyx. Flowering tobacco self-seeds readily but the seedlings are easy to identify and pull if unwanted, so volunteers are generally not a problem in Wisconsin gardens. Reseeding may be problematic in other climates when it can naturalize in open, disturbed areas.
Landscape Use of Flowering Tobacco
Use flowering tobacco in masses at the back of the annual or mixed border as a stunning backdrop for smaller plants, as a tall accent plant, or in a large mixed container. Its bold architectural presence complements almost any garden style from tropical to traditional. Flowering tobacco is right at home in the cottage garden and is a natural for a moon garden. Position the plants where their delightful fragrance can be appreciated in the evening.
Combine them with other tall, late-summer bloomers such as cleome, cosmos (Cosmos bipinnatus), Verbena bonariensis, late-blooming shrub roses, and ornamental grasses. It is also a good choice for filling in gaps left by spring bulbs or spring blooming perennials that go dormant later on, such as Oriental poppy (Papaver orientalis). Their large leaves provide coarse texture, contrasting with other plants with small leaves or fine texture.
General Care of Flowering Tobacco
N. sylvestris grows best in full sun but will tolerate partial shade. It thrives in all types of soils, has moderate moisture requirements but prefers humus rich soils, so amend planting sites generously with compost or other organic materials.
The tips of the first flower spikes can be pinched out to promote branching and more flower clusters. Deadhead spent flower clusters to encourage more blooms and reduce self-seeding. When growing in windy areas or unsupported by other plants, these tall plants may need staking. If the soil is not particularly fertile, feed regularly to support their substantial growth. Flowering tobacco has some pests, including aphids and tobacco hornworm, as well as a few diseases, but generally does not suffer from serious problems.
Propagation of Flowering Tobacco
Flowering tobacco is easily grown from seed, and seed is best sown indoors 6-8 weeks before the last average frost. Because the seed is tiny, sowing directly in the garden after the last frost can be challenging.
Surface sow the seeds and barely cover, as they need light to germinate. At least 12 hours of light per day is necessary for the seeds to germinate. Germination should occur in 1½-3 weeks. Transplant seedlings transplanted into the garden after the last spring frost. The tiny seedlings can quickly fill a 3-4 square foot area, so give them room.
– Susan Mahr, University of Wisconsin – Madison
Last update: Bruce Spangenberg, UW-Madison Extension, 2025
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