Like the wrapper, binder has generally been replaced by cheaper homogenized leaf. Oriental tobacco gives a mild smoke with very characteristic aroma. Average plant heights are 3-5 ft. The leaves are hand primed, normally sewn on a string, and are dull yellow to rich brown in color. The leaves are sun-cured.
Production is centered in the USSR, Turkey, Bulgaria, Greece, Yugoslavia, Romania and Italy.
Largest importers are the U.S., Japan and Germany. The main use for dark-fired tobacco is in the production of snuff, chewing tobacco, and pipe blends. Dark-fired leaves are subjected to smoke from smoldering wood during the early stage of curing. The type of wood used is very important in determining taste and grown. Cured leaves are very dark in color and are long and heavy bodied.