Nicotiana alata. This flowering tobacco stands regally in the garden at 1-1.5m (3-5') tall, with a cascading head of pure white, tubular flowers that attract moths and hummingbirds. It looks splendid among other tall flowering plants such as Agastache and foxgloves. Grow Jasmine Tobacco Nicotiana seeds in a warm spot in your garden, in full sun. Pollinated by moths, this Nicotiana's flowers become particularly fragrant after dusk, so plant some near a window and let the scent waft in during summer.
Annual
Nicotiana flowering tobacco looks timeless in the garden, adding height and airy lightness to any sunny spot. Water during hot, dry spells. Deadhead frequently to keep plants looking neat and to prolong flowering. Stake in windy exposures. Aphids can be blasted off plants with a shot from the hose. Sow on the surface of the soil, and do not cover. Thin to 45-60cm (18-24″) apart. It is easy to grow Nicotiana seeds.
Latin
Nicotiana alata
Difficulty
Easy
Season & Zone
Exposure: Full sun to partial sun – prefers a warm spot
Timing
Sow indoors 6-8 weeks before last frost, or direct sow outdoors any time after the risk of frost has passed. Transplant after last frost.
Starting
Sprinkle seeds on the surface of the soil, and keep moist until germination in 10-20 days.
Growing
Water during hot, dry spells. Deadhead regularly to maintain a neat appearance and encourage further blooming. Stake in windy, exposed gardens. Remove any growth that comes under attack by aphids, or dislodge them with a blast from the hose.
Avoid handling tomato or pepper plants after handling Nicotiana, as it can harbour tobacco mosaic virus. Do not share gardening tools between these plants either.
