Asafoetida
Ferula assa-foetida
Family: ApiaceaeNative: Central Asia (Iran and Afghanistan)Identified: Apr 12, 2026
Ferula assa-foetida is a perennial herb that grows to 2 meters tall. The part shown in the image is the dried gum-oleoresin, which is exuded from the rhizome or taproot of the plant. It typically appears as yellowish-brown, translucent brittle lumps or 'tears'.
Learn more about Asafoetida in the encyclopedia →Care instructions
The plant grows best in well-drained, sandy soil with a pH between 6.5 and 7.5. It requires a cold, dry climate for the roots to develop properly. It is traditionally grown from seeds in sunlight but is rarely cultivated in domestic gardens due to its powerful, sulfurous odor when the resin is extracted.