Asafoetida (Ferula foetida)

Family: Apiaceae or Umbelliferae | Edibility: Edible (2/5)

Ferula foetida is a PERENNIAL growing to 2 m (6ft) by 1.5 m (5ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8. It is in flower in July. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves, Shoots, Roots/Tubers

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Spring, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

flavouring. — Leaves and young shoots - cooked as a vegetable.; The plant has a foetid odour, but this disappears when it is boiled.; The cabbage-like folded heads are eaten raw as a delicacy.; It needs to be steeped in order to remove a bitterness.

Habitat & North American Range

Deserts. (Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9, Zone 10)