This document discusses tobacco (Nicotiana tobaccum). It provides details on the scientific name, family, chromosome number, and origin in America. It notes that tobacco is one of five large genera in the solanaceae family, and that India is the 4th largest producer and 8th largest exporter. It describes the origin and evolution of tobacco from hybridization and chromosome doubling of other Nicotiana species. It outlines the floral biology, selfing and crossing techniques used in tobacco production and breeding. Important tobacco varieties grown in India are also listed.