Two Tobaccos

There are two species of tobacco (Nicotiana) in Sabino, one native and one non-native invasive. Yes, we're trying to get rid of that one. 

Photos © Ned Harris

Desert Tobacco (Nicotiana obtusifolia) is the native one. It's got typical Nightshade foliage and flowers, but the fruits are those brown things on the far left. When they are ripe, you can shake the tiny dark brown seeds right out. Do not eat, smoke, or otherwise ingest.

Photos Flowers © 2016 T. Beth Kinsey
Fruits, Seeds © Ned Harris

Tree Tobacco (Nicotiana glauca) has the same Nightshade features as Desert Tobacco, but is a non-native and invasive plant. We're removing it whenever we see it in Sabino. It likes - and takes - more water than desert plants. When left to its own devices, it really can grow tree sized. Note the fruit and seeds in the hand of your favorite highly trained naturalist. Again, do not eat, smoke, snort, or otherwise take internally.