Nicotiana

From WikiMD.com Medical Encyclopedia

Genus of plants in the nightshade family



Nicotiana is a genus of herbaceous plants and shrubs in the nightshade family (Solanaceae). The genus is native to the Americas, Australia, southwest Africa, and the South Pacific. Several species of Nicotiana are cultivated as ornamental garden plants. The most well-known species, Nicotiana tabacum, is the primary source of tobacco for smoking and other uses.

Description[edit | edit source]

Nicotiana blossom

Nicotiana species are typically annual or perennial herbs, but some species can grow as shrubs. The plants have large, simple leaves and tubular flowers that can be white, pink, red, or green. The flowers are often fragrant, especially at night, to attract pollinators such as moths.

Distribution and habitat[edit | edit source]

Nicotiana species are found in a variety of habitats, from tropical rainforests to arid deserts. They are native to the Americas, with a few species in Australia, southwest Africa, and the South Pacific. The plants are adaptable and can grow in a range of soil types and climates.

Cultivation and uses[edit | edit source]

Nicotiana sylvestris

Nicotiana species are cultivated for various purposes. Nicotiana tabacum is grown for its leaves, which are processed to produce tobacco products. Other species, such as Nicotiana alata and Nicotiana sylvestris, are popular as ornamental plants due to their attractive flowers and pleasant fragrance.

Ecological interactions[edit | edit source]

Manduca sexta, a pollinator of Nicotiana

Nicotiana plants have evolved various ecological interactions with insects. The flowers are adapted to be pollinated by moths, such as the Manduca sexta, which are attracted by the scent and nectar. However, the plants also produce alkaloids, such as nicotine, which serve as a defense mechanism against herbivores.

Species[edit | edit source]

There are over 60 species of Nicotiana. Some of the notable species include:

Pests and diseases[edit | edit source]

Tobacco beetle

Nicotiana plants are susceptible to various pests and diseases. The tobacco beetle (Lasioderma serricorne) is a common pest that can damage stored tobacco products. Fungal diseases, such as black shank and blue mold, can also affect tobacco crops.

Related pages[edit | edit source]

WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates, categories Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD