Indian Tobacco

How to Identify
Leaves

Fruit

Flower

Reference
Lobelia inflata, or Indian Tobacco Classification: Indian tobacco, or Lobelia inflata, is in the order of campanulales, the family of campanulaceae, the genus Lobelia, and the species itself is Lobelia inflata. Etymology: The genus name Lobelia and the plant family Lobeliaceae were named after the botanist Mathias de l’obel, a native of Lille who lived in the 16th and 17th centuries. L’obel published the landmark guide called, “Images of plants, both exotic and native, for students of botany, arranged in two parts: with indices in seven languages for the use of different nationalities”.

Characteristics: Lobelia inflata is an herbaceous annual or biennial plant that stands erect and grows to be 1-2 feet tall.

How to ID Lobelia inflata: Stems: The stems are usually hairy with white hairs. Leaves: The leaves are alternate, can reach 8 cm in length and 3.4 cm in width, and are toothed. Flowers: The flowers are blue-white, are irregular in shape, and can be as big as 0.6 cm. Habitat: Lobelia inflata is usually found in open woods and fields, in the United States and in Canada. Identification Cautions: At high doses Lobelia inflata acts like a acro-narcotic poison.

Scientific Conflicts

Uses Ethnobotanical uses: “The root of this plant was used by the Iroquois to treat venereal diseases, ulcers, and legs sores. The leaves were smashed and applied as a poultice to treat an abscess at the side of the neck. The plant was used to counteract sickness produced by witchcraft. The Cherokee mashed the roots of Indian tobacco and used them as a poultice for body aches. The leaves were rubbed on sores, aches, stiff necks, and chapped places. The Crow used the plant in religious ceremonies” (USDA) http://www.drugs.com/npp/lobelia.html