Habitat:

It is native to the dry tropical regions of North, Central and South America: Mexico, Guatemala, Chile and Peru.

Flowering season:

It is a shrub-like, erect and spreading, tuberous perennial often grown as an annual, with clusters of fragrant flowers from summer to fall.

Fruiting season:

It may also be grown as an annual, especially in the temperate zone. The single-seeded fruits are spherical, wrinkled and black upon maturity, having started out greenish-yellow.

Climatic conditions:

Grow it in full sun in almost any type of soil but they do best in a humus-rich, well-drained spot. Plants can be started from seed sown outdoors after the danger of frost has passed or indoors up to 8 weeks ahead of time.

Seed propagation:

Plants can be started from seed sown outdoors after the danger of frost has passed or indoors up to 8 weeks ahead of time. Soaking the seeds in water overnight will speed up germination. Sow the seeds no more than ¼ inch deep as light aids germination. They should germinate in 1-3 weeks.

Parts used:

Seeds: Seeds  are used in traditional medicine to treat various digestive issues, respiratory problems and skin conditions. Due to their unique shape, they are also used in ornamental crafts such as making jewellery or ornaments.