Nicotiana alata

Native from southeastern and southern Brazil to northeastern Argentina, this short-lived perennial herb is often grown as an annual. It begins with a rosette of leaves, then sends up erect flowering stems. Sticky glandular hairs cover the plant, and the leaf bases extend into winged stalks. Its long, slender flower tubes widen into spreading mouths, usually white to pale green, and release a strong fragrance at night. The light-brown seed capsules open through two divided valves. Numerous horticultural selections have been developed from the species. It is harmful if eaten and can irritate the skin. Photographed in Florida.