Nicotiana langsdorffii

P1000466 Nicotiana langsdorffii (Lnagsdorff's tobacco) (Solanaceae) Flower

Nicotiana langsdorffii, commonly known as Langsdorff's tobacco, is a species of flowering plant in the nightshade family (Solanaceae). It is native to Brazil and Argentina and is cultivated for its ornamental value and its use in tobacco production.

Description

Nicotiana langsdorffii is an annual herbaceous plant that can grow up to 1.5 meters tall. The plant has large, ovate leaves that are sticky to the touch due to glandular trichomes. The flowers are tubular and greenish-yellow, blooming in clusters. The plant produces a capsule fruit that contains numerous small seeds.

Habitat and Distribution

Nicotiana langsdorffii is native to the subtropical regions of Brazil and Argentina. It thrives in well-drained soils and prefers full sun to partial shade. The plant is often found in disturbed areas, such as roadsides and fields.

Cultivation

Nicotiana langsdorffii is grown both for its ornamental flowers and for its leaves, which are used in the production of tobacco. It is relatively easy to cultivate and can be grown from seeds. The plant requires regular watering and benefits from the addition of organic matter to the soil.

Uses

The primary use of Nicotiana langsdorffii is in the production of tobacco. The leaves contain nicotine, an alkaloid that is used in the manufacture of cigarettes and other tobacco products. Additionally, the plant is grown as an ornamental due to its attractive flowers.

Related Species

Nicotiana langsdorffii is closely related to other species in the genus Nicotiana, including Nicotiana tabacum (common tobacco) and Nicotiana rustica (Aztec tobacco). These species are also used in tobacco production and have similar cultivation requirements.

See Also

• Nicotiana tabacum
• Nicotiana rustica
• Solanaceae
• Tobacco