About
This short-lived rosette-forming perennial to a height of 1.5m, with large spoon-shaped dark green leaves at the base, becoming smaller higher up. These are strongly scented at night. Throughout summer and into autumn, tubular greenish-yellow flowers with funnel-shaped mouths appear.
About the genus
Nicotiana can be annuals, biennials, perennials or shrubs, with simple, alternate leaves and tubular or salver-shaped, often fragrant flowers borne in racemes or panicles in summer or autumn
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectWest-facing, South-facing, East-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH3
Plant details
Plant typeAnnual Biennial, Herbaceous Perennial
HabitColumnar upright
FoliageDeciduous
Height1-1.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height1-2 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens
FragranceFlower
ToxicityHarmful if eaten, avoid skin contact. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. Pets (dogs): Harmful if eaten, avoid skin contact. For further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
Care notes
CultivationGrow in fertile, moist but well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed. Surface sow seeds, do not exclude light. Germinate at 18°C (64°F)
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to aphids, thrips, glasshouse whitefly and glasshouse leafhopper
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to grey moulds and to virus diseases