Nicotiana

Nicotiana alata · aka flowering tobacco, jasmine tobacco

Nicotiana, or flowering tobacco, bears loose sprays of star-shaped, trumpet flowers in shades of lime-green, white and dusky pink. Florists use it as an airy filler that lends height, an unusual colour and a soft evening fragrance to garden-style arrangements. The lime-green forms are especially useful for cooling and lifting a palette. It brings a relaxed, cottage-garden charm to summer bouquets.

At a glance

Family	Solanaceae
Origin	South America (Brazil and Argentina)
Peak season	July, August
Availability	June, July, August, September
Stem length	40–70 cm
Vase life	5–8 days
Colors	white, green, pink, red
Price tier	mid

Conditioning

Cut stems and strip the large lower leaves, which draw a lot of water. Condition in deep, cool water for several hours to fully hydrate the soft stems. Keep cool and refresh the water regularly, removing spent blooms to prolong the display.

Care in the vase