Withania somnifera, a perenniel herb, indigenous to North Africa and Asia. It grow to a height of 1m.

Propagation is usually from seed. Germination should be expected within two weeks.

The root of Withania somnifera names Ashwagandha was used in parts of India and Africa as a safe narcotic, sedative, tranquilizer and aphrodisiac.

Active constituents: The root contain withanolide (steroidal lactone) these include somniferine and withaferin A.