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Mohawk Tobacco

Price: $3.49

SKU: 1000721

Mohawk
Nicotiana rustica
[ Approximately 100 seeds per packet ]



A wild form of tobacco historically cultivated by native peoples of Northeastern North America. It is reportedly high in nicotine, used for sacred or ceremonial purposes and not for recreational or habitual smoking.

'Mohawk' plants reach about three feet in height, are vigorous in growth, and fairly hardy. The abundant, pale-yellow blossoms bloom for an extended period and make it an interesting choice as a ornamental annual in flowerbeds and gardens. Does very well in areas with short growing seasons.

This variety entered our collection because an old friend, mentor, and benefactor had 'Mohawk' in his collection. His name was Mark Futterman (CA FU M). In the old SSE yearbooks, he listed his source as "ONT KO K" and that he received the seed in 1989. He further went on to state that the original source was, "… from St. Regis Indian Reservation in Upstate New York."[1,2]

Tobacco plants are very interesting, ornamental, and have many uses apart from consumption. Tobacco seeds are not classified as tobacco products. We promote the cultivation of tobacco plants, but we do not promote the use of tobacco products.
Tobacco seeds are tiny and look like dust, but each one has the potential to quickly grow into a huge tobacco plant. They need light to germinate. Sprinkle the seeds onto the surface of a moist and sterile seed starting mix. Do not cover the seeds. They also must never be allowed to dry out, so they are frequently (but gently) watered using a mist from a spray bottle. While waiting for germination, it can help to cover them with some kind of plastic sheeting to help hold moisture.

Once tiny seedlings emerge, you can pick them out one by one and move them into individual cells. Very lightly fertilize and never allow the potting soil to dry out. Within 6 weeks it'll be ready to plant in the garden. Wait until all risk of frost is over before planting outdoors.

For additional information, please have a look at our more detailed guide with photos.
Informational References:
  1. "Seed Savers Exchange Yearbook," Seed Savers Exchange, 1994.
  2. Note: The St. Regis Indian Reservation is now called the St. Regis Mohawk Reservation and is a Mohawk Indian reservation in Franklin County, New York. It is also known by its Mohawk name, "Akwesasne."

Customer Reviews:

★★★★★ Mohawk Indian Tobacco
By Greg B. (Arkansas) on October 6, 2024

I was very pleased with what I received and the performance of the seeds.

★★★★★ Mohawk Tobacco
By Sarah M (Ohio) on July 5, 2023

I was kind of amazed at how tiny these seeds were. I sprinkled them over a shallow tray of soil I misted a few times per day and covered with plastic wrap. They germinated within a week and I transplanted every sprout to little cups of potting soil with tweezers. I ended up with over 100 plants and only lost two. I had space to plant twelve in my yard and gave the rest away. So far they're doing beautifully and seem to grow inches overnight! This picture is from yesterday prior to weeding but shows how tall they are at this point. I got them started a little late but they are doing great.

★★★★★ Mohawk Tobacco Growing!
By Max9Nine (Missouri) on July 1, 2023

My Mohawk Tobacco seeds were amazing to germinate. They took off first, (of the 3 varieties I chose to use), and grew to size before the other 2, (Virginia Burley and Mississippi Heirloom). But then they stopped. I think it is because of the extremely hot weather this year. The leaves are smaller than the other 2 and they bolted over 2 weeks ago at only 1 foot tall and I am wondering if it is because of the variety being perhaps a more wild type or again, the heat forcing them to "get on with" seed production at the expense of smaller leaves and less height. This is all new to me and I am satisfied to letting the plants be what they are, preserving the seed and the species. It is overall an exciting journey!

★★★★★ Great flower!
By Marci (Central Texas) on May 15, 2023

I ordered the Mohawk tobacco for my honeybees. This addition to our farm has been a great choice! The price is right and the quality is exceptional!