Name: Ashwagandha, African Type
Scientific Name: Withania somnifera (African Type)
Family Name: Solanaceae
Product Description:
The African type of Withania somnifera is a vigorous, heat‑adapted phenotype characterized by taller, more upright growth and narrower, firmer leaves compared to South Asian landrace forms. Stems tend to be more angular and woody, giving the plant a shrub‑like structure even in a single season. Flowers are small and pale green, forming in leaf axils and followed by bright red berries enclosed in a papery, lantern‑like calyx. This phenotype typically shows strong drought tolerance and thrives in hot, arid conditions.
Origination: Traditional African landrace type; species native to India, the Middle East, and North Africa
Historic Uses: Ethnobotanical, Ornamental herb, heritage garden plant, arid‑climate shrub
Height: 3–5 feet tall depending on heat and soil
Hardiness: USDA Zones 9–11 (grown as a warm‑season annual in cooler zones)
Flower Color: Pale green to yellowish
Other Names: African Ashwagandha Type, African Phenotype, African Winter Cherry
Growing Conditions:
Grow in full sun with high heat and excellent drainage. Prefers sandy or rocky soils and tolerates drought once established. Avoid heavy, wet soils. Start indoors in cooler climates and transplant after warm weather settles. Excellent for arid beds, heritage plantings, and hot‑summer gardens where its upright form and resilience shine.
Ships in 3" pots. You will receive a plant similar to the ones pictured, though size and fullness may vary. Please understand that shipped plants have bumpy rides. A few broken leaves or small stems are normal during shipping and are not considered damage. Broken stems can be rooted once the cut end dries to start new growth. Plants may arrive semi‑dormant, and in winter they may naturally drop a few leaves. If your plant arrives rotting or dead, we will replace it. Please contact us with photo proof within 24 hours of delivery. After 24 hours, plant care becomes the buyer’s responsibility, though we’re always happy to answer questions and help you succeed. We also add brief instructions on getting started when you open your box. We want our plant babies to have happy new homes! 🥰
Heat packs are available to purchase in our shop for cold-sensitive plants. Keep in mind some plants we carry are very tropical and even cold, not freezing, temperatures can kill them. 📌IF YOU EXPECT COLD WEATHER, PLEASE PURCHASE A HEAT PACK! 📌 These are necessary for winter shipping, so I sell them at cost. I won't refund or replace any frozen plants unless you buy one!
❗Please Read!❗
Items cannot be shipped to CALIFORNIA or ARIZONA easily due to state import laws. All plants shipped there must be inspected before entry. Seed-grown herbaceous plants may not survive transit. I cannot guarantee herbaceous plant orders from these states, so order at your own risk. Hoyas, cacti, and succulents are an exception. My apologies for any inconvenience.
