Water
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water deeply when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Avoid overhead watering to reduce the risk of fungal diseases. Reduce watering slightly during cooler periods.
Also known as Brazilan Tobacco · Buure-Tabak · Indian Tabacco
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Aztec Tobacco (Nicotiana rustica) is a fast-growing annual plant with a bushy habit, producing fragrant, tubular flowers and a high nicotine content.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Prefers at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Consistent Moisture
50% intensity
Keep soil evenly moist; avoid waterlogging.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Warm
75% intensity
Thrives in temperatures between 20-27°C; protect from frost.
Moderate Feeding
50% intensity
Fertilize every 2-4 weeks during the growing season.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 5/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 5/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Contains nicotine, which is toxic if ingested.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water deeply when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Avoid overhead watering to reduce the risk of fungal diseases. Reduce watering slightly during cooler periods.
Pruning is generally not required for *Nicotiana rustica*, as it naturally forms a bushy habit. You can pinch back the growing tips to encourage bushier growth and more flowers.
Remove any dead or yellowing leaves promptly.
Propagate from seeds sown indoors in late winter or early spring. Lightly cover seeds with soil and keep moist. Germination typically occurs within 1-2 weeks. Seedlings can be transplanted outdoors after the last frost.
Repot young plants annually in spring into slightly larger containers as they grow. Mature plants may need repotting every 2-3 years. Use a well-draining potting mix.
Repotting helps refresh the soil and provides more space for roots.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Aztec Tobacco (Nicotiana rustica)
Where Aztec Tobacco (Nicotiana rustica) is found

Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Solanales |
| Family | Solanaceae |
| Genus | Nicotiana |
| Species | Nicotiana rustica |
Similar in genus Nicotiana
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data