A tall, fast-growing, woody perennial shrub that can reach up to 10 feet (3 meters) in height, Tree Tobacco has large, thick, and glossy leaves, white or pale yellow flowers, and small round fruits which contain numerous tiny seeds.
Tree Tobacco is native to South America but has been introduced and naturalized in many other parts of the world, including North America, Asia, Australia, and Europe. It is a species of flowering plant in the nightshade family Solanaceae. In fact, it is considered an invasive species in many of these areas, where it can outcompete native vegetation and alter ecosystem dynamics, and control measurements have been established to prevent spreading.
As its name suggests, Tree Tobacco contains nicotine, among other alkaloids. However, these substances are toxic to both humans and animals. The leaves and flowers are toxic and can cause severe symptoms of poisoning if ingested, such as nausea, vomiting, headaches, confusion, and, in severe cases, seizures and death.
