Withania somnifera ASHWAGANDHA (20 seeds)

Ashwagandha, also known as Indian ginseng, is a perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the Solanaceae family. Characterized by rapid growth, it is native to India and typically measures 40 to 50 cm in height.

The fruit of Withania somnifera is a small, fleshy berry, red or orange in color and about the size of a cherry, containing a multitude of small seeds.

Indian ginseng seeds come from Withania somnifera; they are yellow, flattened, rough, and shiny. They measure 2 millimeters in diameter.

The foliage of Indian ginseng consists of oval, velvety green leaves. They are arranged oppositely along the stems. Ashwagandha leaves are highly aromatic and release a distinctive, pleasant scent when crushed. They can sometimes take on a grayish tint on the underside.

- Properties:

Ashwagandha is an adaptogenic plant used in Ayurvedic medicine. It helps the body adapt to stress and maintain balance. It is known for its anti-stress, anti-inflammatory, and immunostimulant properties.

Ashwagandha can contribute to reducing anxiety and improving stress resistance. This oneirogenic plant is often taken as a dietary supplement to improve sleep quality, strengthen the immune system, and promote overall health. Its name, "Indian ginseng," evokes the strength of a horse.
Do not consume without medical advice from a healthcare professional.

- Germination and sowing:

• The best period to sow Ashwagandha begins at the end of May and lasts until mid-August; before this, temperatures are far too cool for sowing.
• Sow the seeds in a tray of fine potting soil at a depth of 4 millimeters.
• Water the culture gently by hand using a spray bottle.
• Place the tray in a warm, humid spot, such as a greenhouse, at a temperature of at least 30°C.
• Germination will generally begin within 2 to 4 weeks after sowing.

- Soil type:

It does not necessarily require very rich soil; a good horticultural potting soil will be perfectly suitable. Ensure the bottom of the pot is well-drained.

- Watering:

This Indian ginseng variety requires little watering; once a week is more than enough in the summer. In winter, it does not need to be watered.

- Light / sunlight:

It acclimates to all kinds of light; however, a full-sun location or a southwest exposure is preferred. Regarding artificial lighting, prefer neon lights, HPS (high-pressure sodium lamps), or MH (metal halide) lamps.

- Temperatures:

The "King of Ayurveda" grows very well when the temperature varies between 25 and 35°C; below this, Indian ginseng grows much slower. In winter, remember to bring it indoors, as it is not hardy at all.

- Multiplication:

It can be reproduced either by sowing starting in late spring or by stem cuttings during the summer.

- Maintenance:

Remember to mulch the base during the summer to prevent evaporation. Prune any dry parts at the end of the year, and harvest the fruits and leaves around September.