Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) 9 cm

Common Name: Ashwagandha, Indian ginseng, Winter cherry

Latin Name: Withania somnifera

Family: Solanaceae (Nightshade family)

Origin: Grown from Seed in Co. Wicklow, Ireland

Description: It is a small evergreen shrub with long tuberous roots native in tropical and subtropical areas, ranging from South Africa, Middle East India and China . But in temperate climate it is half-hardy annual with softly green elliptic leaves and small, greenish-yellow flowers and smooth, round fruits with numerous seeds.

Hardiness: Half-hardy. 

Soil: Sandy or loamy, nutrient-rich soil that drains exceptionally well. Avoid clay-heavy, waterlogged soil.

Position: Thrives is full sun, sheltered, warm areas.

Height: typically 35–75 cm (14–30 in) tall.

Maintenance: Plant out only after the risk of frost has passed. While they need consistent moisture while young, they are quite drought-tolerant once established. Do not overwater, as this causes root rot. Ashwagandha might survive winter indoors and if kept dry, but it is more reliable to grow them as annuals. Harvest the roots in early winter or when the leaves begin to die back.