Tree Tobacco

Nicotiana glauca

Physical Characteristics

Nicotiana glauca is an evergreen Shrub growing to 3 m (9ft) by 3 m (9ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8 and is frost tender. It is in leaf all year, in flower from August to October, and the seeds ripen from September to October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Lepidoptera (Moths & Butterflies). Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

S. America - S. Bolivia to N. Argentina. Naturalized in the Mediterranean.

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

The leaves have been made into a drink[257]. Some care should be exercised here. The tea will contain nicotine, and this can be toxic to the body. There is some evidence that Nicotiana glauca may have led to accidental poisoning when it was mistaken for other plants. We would recommend that ingestion is not considered. Please see the warning in Known Hazards.

Medicinal Uses

Antirheumatic Poultice Skin A poultice of the leaves can be applied to cuts, bruises, swellings and other wounds[257]. The plant has been used as a poultice for removing the pus from scrofulous sores or boils[257]. A poultice of the leaves has been applied to inflamed throat glands[257]. An infusion of the leaves has been used as a steam bath in the treatment of rheumatism[257].

Known Hazards

All parts of the plant are poisonous[200].