About this seed
Magnolia is a tall tobacco variety of the species Nicotiana tabacum L., described by its large, oval leaves. Plants can reach about 2.4 m (8 ft) in height, and each leaf can grow to roughly 61 cm (24 in) long and 38 cm (15 in) wide. The variety is similar to Moonlight but matures earlier, so it forms slightly fewer leaves per plant while keeping the same broad leaf shape. These seeds suit gardeners and plant collectors who want to grow a large-leaved Nicotiana tabacum cultivar as a tall foliage plant.
Also known as: common tobacco, cultivated tobacco, tambaku (Hindi), tabaco (Spanish/Portuguese), tabac (French), Tabak (German), tütün (Turkish)
Plant characteristics
- Species: Nicotiana tabacum L.
- Height: up to 2.4 m (8 ft).
- Leaf type: broad and oval, up to 38 cm (15 in) wide and 61 cm (24 in) long.
- Maturity: early compared with similar varieties such as Moonlight.
- Leaf count: slightly fewer leaves per plant than Moonlight.
Growing Magnolia from seed
Like other Nicotiana tabacum seed, the seed of this variety is very fine and needs light to germinate. Sow it on the surface of the growing medium and press it in gently without covering it with soil. Keep the medium evenly moist, but avoid overwatering, which can lead to disease.
- Light: full sun exposure for good growth.
- Temperature: warm conditions suit the plant; germination takes 7 to 14 days at 20-25 degrees C (68-77 degrees F).
- Soil: well-drained, fertile soil with a pH of 5.5-6.5.
- Spacing: 50-60 cm (20-24 in) between plants, which gives each plant room for full leaf development.
- Watering: moderate, with no waterlogging.
Because the plants become tall and carry large leaves, give each one space and an open, sunny position. The recommended spacing of 50-60 cm is given for best leaf development.
A note on size figures
The height and leaf measurements above are upper figures for the variety (up to 2.4 m, up to 61 cm by 38 cm). Individual plants grown from seed can differ in height and leaf size, so treat these numbers as the maximum range to plan space around rather than a guarantee for every plant.
FAQ
What conditions does Magnolia need to germinate?
Light, warmth and moisture. Scatter the seed on the surface of the medium, press it lightly, and keep it at 20-25 degrees C (68-77 degrees F). Do not bury it, because covering the seed blocks the light it needs to sprout.
How long does germination take?
Seedlings usually appear within 7 to 14 days when the seed is kept at 20-25 degrees C (68-77 degrees F) and the medium stays evenly moist.
How tall does Magnolia grow and how much space does it need?
It is a tall variety that can reach up to 2.4 m (8 ft). Allow 50-60 cm (20-24 in) between plants in a sunny position with well-drained, fertile soil so the broad leaves have room to develop.
