Nicotiana langsdorfii

A quick blog here to promote the use of Langsdorff’s flowering tobacco (Nicotiana langsdorfii). This annual, native to Brazil, was first introduced in 1819 and has a long history in gardens, even winning the coveted Award of Garden Merit from the Royal Horticultural Society. This annual prefers full sun but will tolerate part shade. Reaching heights between 2-4’, this plant features dangling, “apple green” trumpets that have been described as “floral wind chimes”. Unlike many other Nicotiana, this species in not fragrant but does have interest for hummingbirds and bees. The 2” long blooms are displayed in profusion. If the plant gets leggy and blooms are dwindling, cut the entire plant back to the bottom set of leaves and it will regenerate the primary stalk and continue to bloom until hard frost. The photos here help share the beauty and potential of this excellent flower. The species name, incidentally, was dedicated in honor of G. I. Langsdorff, the Russian Consul in Rio de Janeiro who helped promote interior explorations of Brazil in the 1820s. It is easy to find and grow from seed!