Withania somnifera - An important herb in Ayurvedic traditions. The roots are used medicinally for their adaptogenic and nervine properties. In warmer climates ashwagandha grows as a woody perennial. But here in Nova Scotia it's possible to grow as an annual, and although the roots will be smaller they're still worthwhile.

Start seeds in early Spring, and treat them like yo would pepper plants (fun fact: ashwagandha is in the family Solanacea, the same as peppers and tomatoes). They need a long growing season to size up, covering plants with cloches to protect from early fall frosts can help.

Grown and packaged by Annapolis Seeds.