Lobelia tupa Seeds - Devil's Tobacco

Lobelia tupa, commonly called Devil’s tobacco, is a perennial plant native to central Chile. It is in the bellflower family of Campanulaceae and the sub-family Lobelioideae. L. tupa is considered to be a sacred plant to the Mapuche of south Chile because of the numerous pharmacologically active chemicals in the plant. The large felty leaves are traditionally smoked and are said to have a hallucinogenic effect. The plant has also been used to treat nicotine addiction because it contains a nicotine-related compound called lobeline, named after the genus. The latex extracted from L. tupa is sometimes used as an abortifacient. USDA hardiness zones 7 through 10. Sow the Lobelia tupa seeds on the surface of a well draining potting mix. Gently water the seeds to prevent them from becoming buried. Keep the soil moist, but not soaking wet and place the seeds in a bright area between 65°F and 75°F for best results. Seeds typically take 10 to 15 days to germinate, but can take longer. Even with o