• A close-up of a single 1000 Year Old Tobacco (Nicotiana rustica) flower reveals its round, trumpet-like shape, with six soft yellow petals flaring outward. The dark green center houses delicate stamens, waiting for visiting pollinators.
  • A stand of 1000 Year Old Tobacco (Nicotiana rustica) grows tall in the summer sun, with sturdy green stalks topped by clusters of small, tubular yellow-green flowers. The large, broad leaves spread outward, forming a dense, leafy base.
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Wild About Flowers

Nicotiana rustica - 1000 Year Old Tobacco

Nicotiana rustica - 1000 Year Old Tobacco

$5.50 CAD
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1000-Year-Old Tobacco is a fast-growing annual with broad, deep green leaves and clusters of small, tubular yellow-green flowers that attract night-flying moths and other pollinators. Thriving in rich, well-drained soils, this historically significant plant has been cultivated for centuries by Indigenous peoples for ceremonial and medicinal purposes. Unlike commercial tobacco, it contains significantly higher nicotine levels, making it toxic if consumed in large quantities. Traditionally used in ceremonies and various preparations ”including as a natural but toxic pesticide” it should be handled with care due to its potency.

While not native to Canada, 1000-Year-Old Tobacco has long been grown throughout Indigenous territories where it was an essential part of spiritual and cultural traditions. Today, it is cultivated in self-sustaining gardens, historical plantings, and pollinator-friendly landscapes. Its high nicotine content deters most herbivores, making it highly resistant to deer and other browsing animals.

Bloom Times & Plant Sizes

Important Information - The "Bloom Period" is an indicator of the time period within which the wildflowers will bloom and does not describe the time period that a single plant will bloom.  The "Sizes" listed are intended to be a general guideline to consult during plant selection. - Plant growth and bloom times will vary depending on geographical location & individual site conditions.

Edible & Medicinal Info Disclaimer

The Edible & Medicinal information on this site is for informational purposes only and should not be acted on without thorough research and professional guidance. We are not responsible for any adverse effects resulting from the use of or misidentification of plants.

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Plant Specifics

Seeds Per Pack

Seeds Per Package: 25

Light Conditions

  • Sun

Soil Conditions

  • Rich
  • Well Drained

Height

  • 12" - 24"
  • 24" - 36"

Width

  • Under 12"
  • 12" - 24"

Bloom Colour

  • Yellow

Month of Bloom

  • July
  • August
  • Septemeber

Vigorousness

  • Moderate
  • Fast

Deer Resistance

  • High

Features

  • Bees
  • Long Bloom Time
  • Urban Spaces
  • Rural Spaces
  • Good in Containers

Chinook Exposure

  • Fully Exposed

Distribution Info

Native to North America, Nicotiana rustica has been cultivated for centuries and is now grown worldwide. It is not native to Canada, but has been historically grown by Indigenous peoples for ceremonial and medicinal purposes.

Traditional Edible & Medicinal Info

Historically used by Indigenous peoples in North and South America for ceremonial and medicinal purposes. It contains higher nicotine levels than commercial tobacco and was traditionally used in spiritual and healing practices rather than recreational smoking.

⚠️ Toxicity Note: All parts of this plant contain high levels of nicotine and are toxic if ingested. Handle with care, especially around children and pets. Not for consumption.