About this seed
Criollo is a variety of Nicotiana tabacum, an annual plant of the nightshade family that is grown for its tall, leafy growth. It reaches 4-5 feet (1.2-1.5 m) in height and carries medium-sized leaves that stay rich green through the growing season. The leaves are thick and have an oily feel, and delicate pink flowers open on the plant in late summer. This listing is for seed of the plant, offered for sowing and growing in the garden.
Plant at a glance
- Species: Nicotiana tabacum
- Variety: Criollo
- Height: 4-5 feet (1.2-1.5 m)
- Leaves: medium-sized, thick and oily; rich green while the plant grows
- Flowers: delicate and pink, appearing in late summer
- Light: full sun
- Soil: fertile and well-drained
- Climate: warm and sunny
Growing Criollo from seed
Start the seed indoors, 6-8 weeks before the last frost in your area. Press the seed lightly onto the soil surface and do not bury it, because it needs light to germinate. Keep the soil consistently moist and hold the temperature at about 75 degrees F (24 degrees C). Under these conditions germination typically takes 7-14 days.
- Sowing time: indoors, 6-8 weeks before the last frost
- Depth: on the surface, pressed in lightly and left uncovered
- Temperature: about 75 degrees F (24 degrees C)
- Moisture: keep the soil consistently moist
- Germination: typically 7-14 days
Transplanting and care
Move the seedlings outdoors only after the last frost has passed. Set the plants 2-3 feet apart in full sun, in fertile, well-drained soil. At 4-5 feet tall, Criollo needs that room so its medium-sized, thick leaves can open without crowding the neighbouring plants. The variety suits a warm, sunny climate, so give it the brightest, warmest spot you have. Water regularly and feed occasionally through the growing season, until the pink flowers open in late summer.
FAQ
What conditions does Criollo need to germinate?
Light, steady moisture and warmth. Press the seed onto the surface of the soil without covering it, keep the soil consistently moist and maintain about 75 degrees F (24 degrees C).
When should I sow Criollo?
Sow indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost. Transplant outdoors after the last frost has passed, with plants 2-3 feet apart in full sun.
How tall does Criollo grow?
Usually 4-5 feet (1.2-1.5 m). The leaves are medium-sized, thick and oily, and stay rich green while the plant grows. Delicate pink flowers appear in late summer.
