Nicotiana alata x sanderae - Crimson Bedder

Dark, saturated flower color can be surprisingly difficult to find in a compact annual, which is exactly why Nicotiana ‘Crimson Bedder’ earns its keep. This tidy flowering tobacco produces a long succession of slim, trumpet-shaped blooms in rich crimson-red—smoldering rather than shouty—held above broad green leaves. The color is superb with silver foliage, apricot flowers, smoky purples, and nearly anything chartreuse.

At roughly 12–18 inches tall, ‘Crimson Bedder’ fits easily along the front of a border, in a mixed container, or tucked into gaps where taller nicotianas would be too much plant. It has enough presence to make a mass planting sing but is also very good in small groups threaded among perennials. Hummingbirds appreciate the tubular flowers, and the steady bloom gives the garden useful color through the warmer months.

Grow it in sun to part shade with regular water and reasonably fertile, well-drained soil. A little afternoon shade can help in hot climates, while cooler coastal gardens can give it more sun. Removing spent flowering stems keeps the plant looking fresh, though it is not a fussy customer. Please note that ornamental tobacco is not edible and all plant parts should be kept away from children and pets. Browse more dramatic annual tobaccos in our Nicotiana collection.

Safety note: All parts of Nicotiana contain nicotine and are toxic if ingested. Keep away from children and pets, and wash hands after handling.