Nicotiana 'Sensation Mixed' Seeds

Nicotiana alata 'Sensation Mixed' is a Half-Hardy Annual (H2) in the UK. Unlike the giant 5ft woodland tobacco, this variety reaches a more versatile height of 60-90cm, making it ideal for the middle of a border or large patio pots.

Nocturnal Strategy: This variety is specifically adapted to attract night-flying pollinators like Hawk Moths. Because the scent and flowers are most active in the evening, it is essential to plant them near seating areas or windows where you can enjoy their fragrance as the sun goes down.

Natural Pest Guard: You may notice the leaves feel slightly sticky to the touch. This is a natural defensive mechanism that can trap small pests like aphids, helping the plant protect itself in the garden.

Nicotiana seeds are tiny and dust-like; they require light to germinate, so they should be sown with great care.

How to Sow:
Sow indoors from February to April. Surface sow the seeds onto moist seed compost. Do not cover the seeds with soil, as they need light to sprout. Simply press them gently into the surface. Keep the environment warm (around 20°C). Germination typically takes 10-14 days.

Where to Plant:
Plant out in June once all risk of frost has passed. They thrive in full sun or partial shade—a little afternoon shade can actually help the flowers stay open longer during the day. They prefer rich, moisture-retentive soil to support their continuous flowering habit.

Ongoing Care:
Deadhead individual spent flowers regularly to keep the plant looking tidy and to encourage a non-stop production of fresh, starry blooms. Ensure they are watered during dry UK spells, particularly if growing in pots, to prevent them from wilting.

Create a multisensory evening display by pairing Nicotiana 'Sensation Mixed' with these night-performing companions from our collection:

• 🌙 Night Scented Stock: The Perfume Factory. Both plants release their strongest fragrance at dusk. Planting low-growing Stock at the base of the taller Nicotiana creates a layered cloud of perfume that will fill your entire garden.
• ☁️ Cosmos 'Purity': The White Glow. The large white saucers of 'Purity' reflect moonlight beautifully, providing a luminous backdrop to the starry, colourful flowers of the Nicotiana.

Sow indoors in spring for a colourful, fragrant performance from July until the first frosts.