Velvet-leaf Tobacco

nicotiana tomentosa

Also known as: ["Velvet-leaf Tobacco","Tomentose Tobacco"]

Family: Solanaceae Genus: Nicotiana Category: Flowers

Overview

A species of flowering plant in the nightshade family, native to Peru, known for its velvety leaves and fragrant flowers.

Benefits & Perks

["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Solanales
Family: Solanaceae
Genus: Nicotiana
Botanical Name: Nicotiana tomentosa

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: indoor pot or sheltered garden bed
  • Suitable For:
    Collectors & Enthusiasts Fragrance Lovers Outdoor Landscapers
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
  • Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain humidity, especially indoors
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, fertile potting mix with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: After flowering or every 2–3 months to maintain shape.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if needed.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to direct sunlight; protect from intense midday sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil conditions or improper watering.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; move outdoors in spring/summer for stronger light.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water deeply to encourage root growth; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal diseases.

Soil

well-draining, fertile potting mix

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Use a mix with good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pH is within optimal range.

Temperature

Prefers 65–80°F (18–27°C); thrives in warm, humid conditions; sensitive to cold drafts.

Avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain consistent warmth; protect from cold nights.

Fertilizing

every 2 weeks during active growth, monthly in winter

Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid over-fertilizing.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings in spring/summer.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in rooting hormone.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Keep moist and humid.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (70–75°F), and indirect light.

Medium

Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand.

Hormone

Recommended to promote root development.

Timeline

Roots in 2–4 weeks; establish in 6–8 weeks.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting bottle.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips for bushiness; cut above leaf nodes to encourage branching.

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove spent flowers to prolong blooming.

Tools

Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape as desired; clean up debris.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before the active growing season begins.

Pot Size

One size larger pot (1–2 inches wider in diameter).

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.

Suggestions

Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and flowering.

Checklist

Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water directly at the base of the plant, ensuring even moisture reaches the root zone; water until it drains from the bottom, then discard excess to prevent waterlogging.

Pro Tip: Use room temperature water to avoid shocking the plant's roots.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in cold; leaf scorch or bud drop in excessive heat.

Cold Stress

Slows growth, causes leaf drop, and may lead to root rot due to reduced metabolic activity.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; reduce watering in cooler temperatures.

Hot Stress

Leaves may wilt, curl, or scorch; flowers may fade quickly; growth may slow due to excessive transpiration.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting or a humidifier; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply during growing season; flush periodically.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 2–4 weeks during active growth (spring/summer); reduce or stop in fall/winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Nicotiana tomentosa may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Nicotiana tomentosa can be caused by water stress, root damage, or pathogen infection, leading to reduced turgor pressure and impaired nutrient uptake.

Leaf spots on Nicotiana tomentosa are typically caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, leading to reduced photosynthetic efficiency and potential leaf drop.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, in Nicotiana tomentosa is often due to excessive moisture or fungal pathogens, causing decay and potentially plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Toxic

Nicotiana tomentosa poses a toxic risk to cats due to its nicotine content. Cats are particularly sensitive to nicotine, which can lead to severe neurological and gastrointestinal effects.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea excessive drooling tremors rapid breathing weakness collapse
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves stems flowers seeds
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent cats from accessing the plant. If ingestion is suspected, seek veterinary care without delay.
Dogs
Toxic

Nicotiana tomentosa is toxic to dogs due to its nicotine content, which can cause significant neurological and gastrointestinal distress. The effects can be severe and potentially life-threatening.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea excessive drooling tremors weakness difficulty breathing collapse
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves stems flowers seeds
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep dogs away from the plant. If ingestion occurs, contact a veterinarian immediately.
Humans
Toxic

Nicotiana tomentosa contains nicotine, a potent neurotoxin that affects the central nervous system. Ingestion can lead to severe physiological disturbances, including increased heart rate, respiratory distress, and potential paralysis.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting diarrhea abdominal pain dizziness tremors seizures respiratory failure
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves stems flowers seeds
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep all parts of the plant out of reach of children and avoid ingestion. Seek immediate medical attention if poisoning is suspected.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Nicotiana tomentosa safe for pets?

A: No, it is toxic to dogs and cats.

Q: Does this plant require full sun?

A: Yes, it thrives in full sun to partial shade.

Q: Are the flowers fragrant?

A: Yes, the flowers are highly fragrant, especially in the evening.

Quick Reference
Family: Solanaceae
Care: moderate
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["collectors/enthusiasts","fragrance lovers","outdoor landscapers"]
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