Nicotiana sylvestris: Elegant White Tobacco Plant for Garden and Ambience

Nicotiana sylvestris, also known as White Tobacco or Flowering Tobacco, is an annual to short-lived perennial prized for its tall, slender growth, white trumpet-shaped flowers, and pleasant nighttime aroma. This plant belongs to the nightshade family (Solanaceae) and is a real eye-catcher in borders, at the back of flowerbeds, or in large containers. Thanks to its graceful appearance and fragrant flowers, Nicotiana sylvestris is both decorative and functional in the garden.

Characteristics of Nicotiana sylvestris

Nicotiana sylvestris can reach a height of 120–180 cm, making it ideal for the back of borders or as a vertical focal point. The flowers are elongated, trumpet-shaped, and brilliant white, blooming from summer to early autumn. In the evening, the flowers emit a sweet, pleasant scent that attracts insects such as moths, making it a useful plant for promoting biodiversity in the garden.

The foliage is grayish-green to light green, oval, and aromatic, which contributes to the plant's ornamental value. Nicotiana sylvestris has an elegant, airy growth habit, adding a soft, dynamic touch to borders and gardens.

Flowering and Maintenance

Nicotiana sylvestris is easy to grow from seed and can be sown directly in the ground or pre-sown in pots. The plant thrives in well-drained soil and a sunny to partially shaded location. Although it is an annual in many climates, it can overwinter as a short-lived perennial in warmer regions.

To prolong flowering, it's advisable to regularly remove spent flowers. Nicotiana sylvestris requires moderate watering, especially during dry spells, and benefits from fertile soil to support its tall, graceful growth.

Garden and Landscape Use

This elegant tobacco plant is versatile in the garden:

• Borders and backgrounds: ideal for creating height and depth in mixed flower borders.

• Containers and bins: suitable for terraces, patios and balconies where height is required.

• Biodiversity garden: attracts moths and other pollinators with its fragrant flowers.

• Atmospheric evening garden: the pleasant night scent makes it an ideal plant for gardens where you want to enjoy the evening.

Safety aspects

Nicotiana sylvestris belongs to the nightshade family and contains alkaloids, making it unsuitable for human consumption. Touching the plant is completely safe, but it is not recommended that children or pets eat any part of the plant.