Do you know Ferula Drudeana seeds once went extinct due to over-harvesting in the 1st century AD? However, this plant again showed up in three places in Turkey in 2021 AD.
Along with the medicinal values, people from ancient Rome also used Ferula Drudeana seeds as a currency.
So, read this whole article to know everything about rare Ferula Drudeana seeds and tips for growing them.
Table of Contents Show
What Do Ferula Drudeana Seeds Look Like?
Ferula Drudaena seeds are small and elongated, closely resembling Cumin and Caraway seeds.
Along with the pointed tips, they have a smooth surface. Like Cumin, these seeds are brown in color.
However, the seeds are slightly flattened and are large in size compared to Cumins. Moreover, Ferula seeds are more oblong.
You may also see some ridges on the surface of the seeds, and the seeds are slightly curved.
When you smell the seeds, you can feel the strong, musky odor, just like garlic or onions mixed with camphor powder.
How To Grow And Harvest Ferula Drudeana Seeds?
To germinate Ferula Drudaena seeds, you must choose a Terracotta pot with enough drainage holes. Also, fill the pot with a succulent-friendly potting mix.
Moreover, the seeds are too sensitive to cold, so don’t forget to provide them with frost blankets during freezing cold.
- Firstly, rub the seeds with sandpaper to stratify them. Without stratifying, Ferula seeds won’t germinate.
- In the early spring, sow the seeds 1 inch deep and moisten the soil. Waterlogged soil may invite root rot.
- Place the seeds in partial shade and a warm temperature of about 70°F.
- Your Ferula Drudaena seeds will germinate within a week. Keep patience, as some may take several weeks too.
- Transplant the germinated seeds to the bigger container providing 6-8 hours of direct sunlight.
- Ferula Drudaena will take about 7-10 years to mature and produce viable seeds.
- Wait until the seeds are hard, brown, and fully mature.
- Deadhead the seedpods and shake them in a container. Remove the empty seed pods.
- Dry the seeds safely in a paper towel and store them in an air-dry container.
Never crush the seeds while harvesting them, as crushed ones never germinate.
Benefits Of Ferula Drudeana Seeds
Ferula Drudeana seed is a good source of silphium, the popular and expensive spice of ancient Rome.
These seeds have effective medicinal value for gastrointestinal disorders, wounds, and many more.
- The seeds contain ferulic acid having anti-inflammatory properties useful to treat wounds, allergies, arthritis, etc.
- Anti-oxidant properties help to repair cell damage and protect them from further damage.
- Moreover, the carminative properties help to improve the digestive system.
- Consuming the seeds properly in a small amount helps in energy stimulation and boosts your immunity.
However, consult with your doctor before consuming these seeds for your safety.
From Editorial Team
Raw Ferula Drudeana Seeds Are Poisonous!
Consume Ferula Drudeana seeds only after roasting them, as raw seeds can be extremely toxic.
Raw seeds can cause severe stomach upset, diarrhea, vomiting, and multiorgan failure. Excessive ingestion may lead to coma and, finally, death.
