Withania somnifera, commonly known as ashwagandha or winter cherry, is an evergreen shrub native to arid regions of India, the Middle East, southern Europe, and parts of Africa, often found in open scrublands and disturbed areas. It typically grows 14-30 inches tall with tomentose (covered with dense, matted, woolly hairs) branches. The leaves are dull green, elliptic, and the plant produces small, greenish-yellow bell-shaped flowers. After flowering, it bears orange-red fruit enclosed in a papery husk, which is notable when ripe. Ashwagandha is renowned for its medicinal properties and is a key herb in Ayurveda.

The plant is valued for its adaptogenic effects, believed to help the body resist stressors of all kinds. It is cultivated for its roots, which are harvested in the drier regions where it thrives. Ashwagandha prefers dry stony soil, tolerates sun to partial shade, and requires minimal water once established, making it suitable for xeriscaping. It can be propagated from seeds or greenwood cuttings. In addition to its medicinal uses, it is sometimes grown as an ornamental for its interesting fruits. However, gardeners should be aware of potential pests such as leaf spot disease, treehoppers, and red spider mites. Due to its bioactive compounds, including withanolides and alkaloids, it has earned the nickname "Indian ginseng." Caution is advised when using ashwagandha as it may interact with prescription drugs, and its use during pregnancy or breastfeeding is contraindicated.CC BY-SA 4.0