Nicotiana alata Grandiflora | Flowering Tobacco | Very fragrant

Nicotiana alata Grandiflora | Flowering Tobacco | Very Fragrant

Nicotiana alata Grandiflora, commonly known as Flowering Tobacco, is a beautiful annual prized for its large, elegant, cream-white tubular flowers and intense evening fragrance. The flowers can reach up to 10 cm (4 in) long and open in the evening, releasing a sweet, delightful scent that fills the garden during warm summer nights.

This charming plant is perfect for planting near garden paths, patios, terraces, or evening seating areas, where its fragrance can be fully enjoyed. With its graceful stems and abundant blooms, Nicotiana adds height, movement, and a romantic feel to summer gardens.

It is especially popular in cottage gardens, summer borders, and cut flower gardens, where the long stems and delicate flowers are also appreciated in floral arrangements.

Plant Details

Botanical name: Nicotiana alata Grandiflora
Family: Solanaceae
Plant type: Annual
Height: 70–90 cm (28–35 in)
Position: Full sun to partial shade
Soil: Fertile, moist but well-drained
Flowering period: June – September
Flower colour: Cream-white
Use: Borders • Landscape plantings • Cut flowers • Cottage gardens

Why Grow Nicotiana alata Grandiflora

• Highly fragrant flowers, especially in the evening
• Elegant cream-white tubular blooms up to 10 cm long
• Perfect for evening gardens and seating areas
• Long flowering period throughout the summer
• Excellent for cut flowers and romantic bouquets
• Ideal for cottage gardens and mixed borders

Sowing Instructions

Indoor Sowing

Start seeds indoors before the last expected frost.

1. Sow seeds thinly onto moist, well-drained seed compost.
2. Cover lightly with a thin layer of vermiculite.
3. Do not exclude light, as light aids germination.
4. Maintain a temperature of 18–22°C.
5. Germination usually occurs in 10–14 days.
6. Transplant seedlings into 8 cm pots when large enough to handle.
7. Harden off plants and transplant outdoors after danger of frost has passed.

Plant spacing: approx. 40 cm

Direct Sowing Outdoors

Seeds can also be sown directly outdoors after the last frost.

• Sow on the surface of prepared soil.
• Water gently after sowing.
• Seeds require light to germinate.

Growing Tips

• Easy to grow once established.
• Water regularly during dry periods.
• Cut flowers regularly to encourage more blooms.
• Remove faded flowers if you wish to prevent self-seeding.

Perfect For

Summer Borders – elegant height and fragrance
Cut Flower Gardens – long stems for bouquets
Cottage Gardens – romantic summer atmosphere
Evening Gardens – sweet fragrance on warm nights