Ashwagandha - Indian Ginseng (Withania somnifera)

Family: Solanaceae | Edibility: Edible (1/5)

Withania somnifera is an evergreen Shrub growing to 1 m (3ft 3in) by 0.5 m (1ft 8in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 9 and is frost tender. It is in leaf all year. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). 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. It cannot grow in the shade.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Fall, Late Summer

Flavor & Culinary Uses

The seeds are used to curdle plant milks in order to make vegetarian cheeses. — The seeds are used to curdle plant milks in order to make vegetarian cheeses.

Habitat & North American Range

Open places, disturbed areas etc. An undershrub in stony places. (Zone 10)