Jasmine Tobacco
Nicotiana alataUSDA | Grow Zone
10-11Outdoors all year in zones 10 to 11. Anywhere colder, keep it as a houseplant. Protect it below 50°F.
- Light
- Full sun, 6-8 hours
- Water
- When top inch is dry
- Humidity
- 40-60%
- Temperature
- 60-75°F (15-24°C)
- Difficulty
- Beginner
- Growth
- Moderate
- Mature size
- 3-4 ft tall, 2-3 ft wide
- Pets
- Toxic to pets and humans
Jasmine Tobacco, known for its fragrant flowers, is a stunning addition to any garden. Native to South America, it thrives in sunny conditions and attracts pollinators. Its unique blooms and ease of care make it a favorite among gardeners.
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Ideal temperature
60-75°F is where it grows fastest. Below 50°F cold damage starts.
Spacing and harvest
- Mature size
- 3-4 ft tall, 2-3 ft wide
- Plant apart
- 24-36 in
- Frost
- Tender: no frost
Everything it needs
9 essentials at a glance
Watering
Jasmine Tobacco prefers consistently moist soil but should not be waterlogged.
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 3-5 days during active growth. In hotter months, increase frequency. Signs of over-watering include yellowing leaves and root rot, while under-watering can cause wilting and leaf drop.
Light
This plant thrives in full sun, requiring at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Ideal placement is in a sunny garden bed or a south-facing balcony. It can tolerate partial shade but may not flower as profusely.
Soil
Jasmine Tobacco prefers well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0.
A mix of potting soil, compost, and perlite or sand is recommended to ensure good drainage. Avoid heavy clay soils that retain too much moisture.
Humidity
Humidity levels around 40-60% are ideal for Jasmine Tobacco.
To increase humidity, consider misting the leaves or placing a humidifier nearby. Signs of low humidity include browning leaf tips and leaf drop.
Temperature
The ideal temperature range for Jasmine Tobacco is 60-75°F (15-24°C).
It is best suited for USDA hardiness zones 10-11. Protect from frost, as it is not cold-tolerant, and avoid exposing it to temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
Fertilizing
Use a balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10 or similar.
Fertilize every 4-6 weeks during the growing season, reducing frequency in fall. Signs of nutrient deficiency include yellowing leaves (nitrogen) and poor flowering (phosphorus).
Pruning
Prune Jasmine Tobacco in early spring to encourage bushier growth and remove any dead or damaged stems.
Use sharp, clean pruning shears. Deadheading spent flowers will promote continuous blooming throughout the season.
Repotting
Repot Jasmine Tobacco every 1-2 years or when it becomes root-bound.
Choose a pot that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter. Signs it needs repotting include roots growing out of the drainage holes and stunted growth. Follow these steps: remove the plant from its pot, gently loosen the roots, and place it in fresh potting mix.
Propagation
Jasmine Tobacco can be propagated through seeds or cuttings.
For seeds, sow them indoors 8-10 weeks before the last frost date. For cuttings, take 4-6 inch stem cuttings in spring, remove lower leaves, and place them in moist potting mix. Keep the cuttings in a warm, humid environment until roots develop.
When it's unhappy
Yellow leaves
Why it happens
Often caused by over-watering or nutrient deficiency.
How to fix it
Check soil moisture; if too wet, reduce watering. If nutrient deficiency is suspected, apply a balanced fertilizer.
Root rot
Why it happens
Caused by overly wet soil conditions.
How to fix it
Ensure proper drainage and reduce watering frequency. Remove affected roots and repot in fresh, dry soil.
Wilting leaves
Why it happens
Typically due to under-watering or extreme heat.
How to fix it
Increase watering frequency and ensure the plant is not exposed to excessive heat.
Browning leaf tips
Why it happens
Often a sign of low humidity or salt buildup in the soil.
How to fix it
Increase humidity levels and flush the soil with water to remove excess salts.
Poor flowering
Why it happens
Can be due to insufficient light or nutrient deficiency.
How to fix it
Ensure the plant receives full sun and consider fertilizing to boost nutrient levels.
Care through the year
Spring
In spring, prune back any dead stems and fertilize to encourage new growth. Ensure the plant is in a sunny location as temperatures warm.
Summer
During summer, maintain consistent watering and consider mulching to retain soil moisture. Deadhead spent flowers to promote continuous blooming.
Fall
In fall, reduce watering as the plant's growth slows. Prepare for cooler temperatures by bringing potted plants indoors if necessary.
Winter
In winter, Jasmine Tobacco may enter dormancy. Reduce watering further and keep it in a cool, bright location until spring.
Toxicity & Safety
Jasmine Tobacco is considered toxic to pets and humans. The leaves and flowers contain nicotine, which can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and increased heart rate if ingested. Keep out of reach of children and pets.
Good to know
How often should I water my Jasmine Tobacco?
Water Jasmine Tobacco when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 3-5 days during the growing season, adjusting for heat and humidity.
Why are my Jasmine Tobacco leaves turning yellow?
Yellowing leaves can indicate over-watering or nutrient deficiency. Check soil moisture and consider fertilizing if needed.
What light conditions does Jasmine Tobacco prefer?
Jasmine Tobacco thrives in full sun, requiring at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day for optimal growth and flowering.
Can I grow Jasmine Tobacco indoors?
Yes, Jasmine Tobacco can be grown indoors if provided with sufficient light, ideally using grow lights to supplement natural sunlight.
How do I propagate Jasmine Tobacco?
You can propagate Jasmine Tobacco through seeds or stem cuttings. For seeds, sow indoors before the last frost; for cuttings, root them in moist soil.
What should I do if my Jasmine Tobacco is wilting?
Wilting can be a sign of under-watering or heat stress. Check the soil moisture and adjust your watering schedule accordingly.
Is Jasmine Tobacco toxic to pets?
Yes, Jasmine Tobacco is toxic to pets and humans due to its nicotine content. Keep it out of reach of children and animals.
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