Description
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), sometimes called Indian ginseng or winter cherry, is a tender perennial from the nightshade family (Solanaceae), closely related to tomatoes and cape gooseberries. Native to arid regions of India and North Africa, it grows as a small, bushy shrub with soft, velvety leaves and small greenish-yellow flowers that give way to bright red berries encased in papery husks. The plant thrives in hot, dry conditions and prefers sandy, well-drained soils in a sunny position. Traditionally, the roots are harvested and dried for use in teas, tinctures, and powders, and are highly prized in Ayurvedic medicine as a powerful adaptogen. Ashwagandha is used to support the body in times of stress, restore energy and vitality, encourage restful sleep, and balance overall wellbeing. Though frost-tender, it can be grown as an annual in cooler climates, where it still produces roots suitable for medicinal harvest within one season.
