A high-potency, quick-growing heirloom of the rustica tobacco species, Sacred Cornplanter is distinguished by its large leaves, short stature, and cultural resonance. This open-pollinated variety reaches about three feet in height and matures in under 50–60 days from transplant.
While precise historical lineage is limited in the public record, the name “Cornplanter” evokes the legacy of Corn Planter—an 18th-century Seneca war-chief and diplomat—and references the region around the Akwesasne/St. Regis Mohawk–Seneca lands. This strain was passed on to me from a few different sources, noting it came from the Cornplanter Senecas.
Leaves are broad and deep green, borne on vigorous plants that flower freely. Rustica species are far stronger in nicotine content than standard tobacco (N. tabacum), making them suitable primarily for small-scale, ritual, ornamental, or ecological uses (such as insect deterrence, companion plantings or pollinator support).
Important disclaimers
Nicotiana rustica varieties contain very high nicotine levels and pose significant health risks if smoked, chewed, or otherwise consumed.
This listing focuses on seed preservation, cultural/ornamental cultivation, and ecological uses—not on recreational use.
Cultivation of tobacco species may be regulated in certain jurisdictions—please check local laws before growing
Days to maturity: ~50–60 days from transplant (dependent on conditions)
Seeds per pack: ~1/8 tsp of many, many small seeds
Germination test date/rate: 92% 10/15/2025
Start seeds indoors about 6–8 weeks before the final frost; seeds must remain on the soil surface and receive light to germinate. Transplant outdoors after danger of frost, spacing plants 18–24 inches apart in full sun and rich well-drained soil. Because of its rustica vigor, moderate fertility and regular moisture will produce large, firm leaves and strong growth.
Rustica tobacco is primarily insect- and wind-pollinated. To maintain the variety’s integrity, isolate by at least ¼ mile from other tobacco varieties (especially other rusticas) or stagger flowering times. Select plants with the truest form—large leaves, compact growth—and remove flowers before seed divergence if preserving type. Allow seed capsules to mature fully on the plant until brown and dry; then finish drying in a ventilated, low-humidity space. Store seeds in a cool, dark, dry location; viability typically remains high for 2–3 years.
A high-potency, quick-growing heirloom of the rustica tobacco species, Sacred Cornplanter is distinguished by its large leaves, short stature, and cultural resonance. This open-pollinated variety reaches about three feet in height and matures in under 50–60 days from transplant.
While precise historical lineage is limited in the public record, the name “Cornplanter” evokes the legacy of Corn Planter—an 18th-century Seneca war-chief and diplomat—and references the region around the Akwesasne/St. Regis Mohawk–Seneca lands. This strain was passed on to me from a few different sources, noting it came from the Cornplanter Senecas.
Leaves are broad and deep green, borne on vigorous plants that flower freely. Rustica species are far stronger in nicotine content than standard tobacco (N. tabacum), making them suitable primarily for small-scale, ritual, ornamental, or ecological uses (such as insect deterrence, companion plantings or pollinator support).
Important disclaimers
Nicotiana rustica varieties contain very high nicotine levels and pose significant health risks if smoked, chewed, or otherwise consumed.
This listing focuses on seed preservation, cultural/ornamental cultivation, and ecological uses—not on recreational use.
Cultivation of tobacco species may be regulated in certain jurisdictions—please check local laws before growing
Days to maturity: ~50–60 days from transplant (dependent on conditions)
Seeds per pack: ~1/8 tsp of many, many small seeds
Germination test date/rate: 92% 10/15/2025
Start seeds indoors about 6–8 weeks before the final frost; seeds must remain on the soil surface and receive light to germinate. Transplant outdoors after danger of frost, spacing plants 18–24 inches apart in full sun and rich well-drained soil. Because of its rustica vigor, moderate fertility and regular moisture will produce large, firm leaves and strong growth.
Rustica tobacco is primarily insect- and wind-pollinated. To maintain the variety’s integrity, isolate by at least ¼ mile from other tobacco varieties (especially other rusticas) or stagger flowering times. Select plants with the truest form—large leaves, compact growth—and remove flowers before seed divergence if preserving type. Allow seed capsules to mature fully on the plant until brown and dry; then finish drying in a ventilated, low-humidity space. Store seeds in a cool, dark, dry location; viability typically remains high for 2–3 years.
