Overview
Ferula assa-foetida is a tall, herbaceous perennial herbaceous perennial in the genus Ferula, part of the Apiaceae family, with pinnately divided leaves foliage. Ferula assa-foetida grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include specimen plant and architectural feature.
About
Ferula assa-foetida, commonly known as asafetida or devil's dung, is a tall, herbaceous perennial belonging to the Apiaceae family. It features broad, pinnately divided leaves and produces compound umbels of small flowers in spring and summer. This plant thrives in full sun with a south-facing, sheltered aspect, favouring well-drained, neutral loam soils. Hardy to UK zone H5, it is best grown as a specimen or architectural feature, requiring watering during establishment and propagated by seed or division.
About the genus
Ferula is a genus of about 220 species of flowering plants in the family Apiaceae, native to the Mediterranean region east to central Asia, mostly growing in arid climates. Many plants of this genus, especially F. communis, are referred to as "giant fennel", although they are not fennel in the strict sense.
Wikipedia contributors, "Ferula", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Ferula
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Ferula
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Loam
- Soil pH
- Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H5
Plant details
Ferula assa-foetida size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Herbaceous Perennial
- Habit
- Tall, herbaceous perennial
- Foliage
- Pinnately divided leaves
- Suggested uses
- Specimen plant, architectural feature
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Ferula assa-foetida
- Propagation
- Seed, division
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-resistant
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-resistant
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Ferula assa-foetida?
Ferula assa-foetida prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Ferula assa-foetida need?
Ferula assa-foetida grows best in loam soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
Is Ferula assa-foetida hardy in the UK?
Ferula assa-foetida has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.
How do I propagate Ferula assa-foetida?
Seed, division.
