About this variety
Perspective is a Burley-type tobacco variety grown from seed and listed under the species Nicotiana tabacum. The plant reaches about 1.8 m (6 ft) in height and carries large, broad, light green leaves with a smooth texture. This page covers the plant, how its seeds are sown and what to expect from seedlings and the growing season, so you can judge whether it fits your garden space and climate.
Also known as: common tobacco, cultivated tobacco, tambaku (Hindi), tabaco (Spanish/Portuguese), tabac (French), Tabak (German), tütün (Turkish)
About this variety
- Botanical name: Nicotiana tabacum, the species given on the product record.
- Variety name: Perspective, listed in our catalog as Tobacco Perspective.
- Leaf type: Burley, with large, broad, light green leaves and a smooth texture.
- Height: about 1.8 m (6 ft) at maturity.
- Maturity: typically 75 to 85 days after transplanting.
- Site: full sun, warm temperate climate, well-drained fertile soil with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5.
A plant of this height needs room and some shelter. Pick a spot where the tall stems will not take the full force of wind, and where the large leaves have air moving between them.
Growing Perspective from seed
Tobacco seed is very fine and needs light to germinate, so it is never buried. Scatter it thinly over the surface of the growing mix, press it lightly into contact with the soil and leave it uncovered.
- Sowing depth: on the surface only; the seeds require light to germinate.
- Temperature: 20 to 25 C (68 to 77 F) while the seeds sprout.
- Time to sprout: typically 7 to 14 days at that temperature.
- Moisture: keep the mix evenly moist but not waterlogged. A fine mist or bottom watering keeps the seeds from washing away.
Transplanting and spacing
Move seedlings to their final position only when they are sturdy enough to handle and the weather is warm. Set the plants 50 to 60 cm (20 to 24 in) apart so air can circulate around the large leaves.
Give the plants full sun and soil that drains freely. Water regularly so the soil stays consistently moist, and avoid standing water around the roots. On heavy ground, a raised bed or added organic matter helps drainage.
Quick sowing guide
- Light: required for germination, so sow on the surface.
- Sowing temperature: 20 to 25 C (68 to 77 F).
- Emergence: typically 7 to 14 days.
- Final spacing: 50 to 60 cm (20 to 24 in).
- Soil pH: 5.5 to 6.5.
- Time from transplanting to maturity: typically 75 to 85 days.
- Mature height: about 1.8 m (6 ft).
FAQ
What conditions do the seeds need to sprout?
Light, warmth and steady moisture. Sow on the soil surface without covering the seeds, hold the temperature at 20 to 25 C (68 to 77 F) and keep the mix damp. Under these conditions seedlings typically appear in 7 to 14 days.
When should I sow Perspective?
Sow early enough that the plants can be moved outdoors into warm weather and still have the 75 to 85 days after transplanting that this variety typically needs to mature. Count back from the end of your warm season to find your sowing date.
How tall does the plant grow?
Perspective reaches about 1.8 m (6 ft). Allow 50 to 60 cm (20 to 24 in) between plants and choose a sunny spot so each plant can develop its large, smooth, light green leaves fully.




