Family: Lily (Liliaceae)

Hardy to Zones 8 to 12

(Satmuli, Shatamuli, Wild Asparagus, Satawari, Kurilo, Satawar, Asparagus volubilis)  Perennial climbing asparagus native to the Himalayas, occurring at elevations from 300 to 6,500 feet.  Shatavari flowers exude an alluring aroma reminiscent of sweet almond.  They are pollinated by tiny wasps.  The flowers give way to red berries containing the round, black seeds.  In nature, the plant grows in the tropical understory, tuberous roots giving forth multiple twisting stems that climb and cling by way of sharp thorns.  In Sanskrit, Shatavari means “one who possesses a hundred husbands.”  The spring shoots, mucilaginous roots and the leaves are all used.  Traditional usage (Ayurveda): rejuvenative tonic for females, sexual debility, infertility, menopausal symptoms, galactagogue. Source of proestrogenic steroidal saponins, vitamins A, B1, B2, C, and E, Calcium, Iron and Folic Acid.  Plant prefers a south or west exposure and deep, rich soils.  The best soil pH for growing Shatavari is barely acidic (pH 6-6.7).  Soak seeds in 120 degrees F water and let sit overnight in that water as it cools.  Fresh seed not necessary–have recorded excellent results with 4-year-old seeds.  Sow seeds in rich potting soil in the greenhouse or under lights.  Germination sometimes as quickly as 18 days and often requiring a full 6 months.  We have kept these plants for years, planted in deep pots in the greenhouse, providing a trellis for climbing and as much room as possible for the tuberous roots to grow.  Growers in frost-free zones will find this a ready grower in the forest garden.
10 seeds/pkt, certified organically grown