Shop at deodar-seeds.com 
About this seed
Nicotiana rustica is a Nicotiana variety grown from seed and listed under the species Nicotiana rustica. The plant reaches about 1.5 to 1.8 m (5 to 6 ft) tall and carries broad, thin, slightly oily leaves. This page covers the plant, how its seeds are sown and what to expect from seedlings, so you can judge whether it fits your garden space and season.
About this variety
- Botanical name: Nicotiana rustica, the species given on the product record.
- Variety name: Nicotiana rustica, kept as listed in our catalog.
- Height: about 1.5 to 1.8 m (5 to 6 ft) at maturity.
- Leaf type: broad, thin, slightly oily leaves.
- Site: full sun and well-drained, fertile soil.
Nicotiana rustica is a different species from the more widely grown Nicotiana tabacum, and the two are not interchangeable in the garden. Older descriptions of this variety name Nicotiana tabacum instead, so we follow the species recorded on the product record and give it here as Nicotiana rustica.
Growing Nicotiana rustica from seed
Nicotiana planting seeds need light to germinate, so they are never buried. Press them lightly onto the surface of the growing mix and leave them uncovered.
- Start indoors: sow 6 to 8 weeks before the last expected frost.
- Sowing depth: on the surface only. Press the seeds in gently so they make contact with the soil.
- Temperature: keep the mix near 24 C (75 F) while the seeds sprout.
- Moisture: keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. A fine mist or bottom watering avoids washing the seeds away.
- Time to sprout: about 7 to 14 days at the temperature above.
Transplanting and spacing
Wait until the last frost has passed before moving seedlings outdoors. Young plants are started indoors, so they should only go out once frost is no longer expected. Space the plants 2 to 3 feet (about 60 to 90 cm) apart so each one has room to reach its full height, with air moving between the leaves.
Choose a position in full sun with well-drained, fertile soil. Water regularly through the growing season, and feed occasionally to support steady growth. Because the plant can reach 1.8 m, avoid exposed spots where tall stems would be hit by strong wind.
Quick sowing guide
- Light: required for germination, so sow on the surface.
- Sowing temperature: about 24 C (75 F).
- Emergence: about 7 to 14 days.
- Start time: indoors, 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost.
- Final spacing: 2 to 3 feet (about 60 to 90 cm).
- Mature height: about 1.5 to 1.8 m (5 to 6 ft).
FAQ
What conditions do the seeds need to sprout?
Light, warmth and steady moisture. Sow on the soil surface without covering the seeds, hold the temperature near 24 C (75 F), and keep the mix damp. Under these conditions seedlings are expected to appear in about 7 to 14 days.
When should I sow Nicotiana rustica?
Sow indoors 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost in your area. Move seedlings outdoors only after the last frost has passed, because young plants are sensitive to cold.
How tall does the plant grow?
The plant grows about 1.5 to 1.8 m (5 to 6 ft) tall. Give each plant 2 to 3 feet (about 60 to 90 cm) of space and a sunny spot so it can develop its broad, thin leaves fully.