Long-flower tobacco: complete guide

Overview

Long-flower tobacco (Nicotiana longiflora) is an elegant ornamental plant native to Bolivia, Paraguay, Brazil and Argentina. The plant grows as an upright shrub sixty to one hundred centimeters high and forms elegant, long tubular flowers. This member of the nightshade family (Solanaceae) is also known as garden smoke and long-flowered tobacco.

Appearance and bloom

Nicotiana longiflora forms an upright plant with large, elliptical leaves fifteen to twenty centimeters long. From July through October, numerous long tubular flowers five to eight centimeters in length appear. The flowers are white, cream or light pink with slender, elongated tubes that significantly widen at the base. The flowers are strongly fragrant especially in the evening. Each flower head contains many blooms.

Ideal location

Long-flower tobacco demands full sun to part shade. In very warm regions, some afternoon shade may be beneficial. The plant grows best in warm locations with protection from strong wind. In cooler regions, warmth against a wall or fence provides better growth and bloom.

Soil requirements

Well-drained, moderately nutrient-rich light to medium soil. The plant accepts a wide range of soil types and also grows on somewhat nutrient-poor terrain. A pH between six and seven is ideal. Heavy clay soils improve with sand or compost. Feeding is not essential but one feeding in June promotes bloom.

Watering

While young, regular watering is essential. Ensure moist soil without waterlogging. Once established, the plant tolerates drought better than many other annuals. During bloom water regularly but avoid waterlogging. In pot culture keep more moist than in ground.

Pruning and maintenance

Long-flower tobacco requires very little maintenance. Pinch off seed set regularly to encourage continued bloom. In very warm climates, cutting back growth may be beneficial. No special disease control needed beyond normal housekeeping against insects.

Maintenance calendar

May-June: Plant seedlings after last frost. June-July: Growth takes off, bloom begins. July-October: Peak blooming; regularly remove seed set. October-November: Bloom decreases. November: Plant dies after frost.

Winter and cultivation

Nicotiana longiflora is usually grown as a summer-annual. Sow indoors in March to April at 14 to 21 degrees Celsius for germination. Plant out after last frost. In very mild climates USDA zone 9 to 11, it can be perennial with winter protection.

Compatible companion plants

Long-flower tobacco grows beautifully next to other summer plants like zinnias (Zinnia elegans), jasmine (Jasminum sambac) and amaranth (Amaranthus tricolor). Also attractive in pots with other trailing plants like wandering Jew (Tradescantia pallida). In borders attractive behind more compact bloomers.

Closing thoughts

Long-flower tobacco is a valuable summer bloomer for gardeners who appreciate long, fragrant evening flowers. The easy cultivation from seed and continuous bloom make it a favorite for cut flower borders.