Asafoetida is used sometimes in Indian vegetarian cuisine along with tumeric, which is a perennial in the Curcuma genus.
It plays a critical flavoring role in Indian vegetarian cuisine by acting as a savory enhancer. Used along with turmeric, it is a standard component of lentil curries, such as dal, chickpea curries, and vegetable dishes, especially those based on potato and cauliflower. Genus: Curcuma The plant is a perennial, rhizomatous, herbaceous plant native to the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia, that requires temperatures between 20 and 30 C (68 and 86 F) and a considerable amount of annual rainfall to thrive. 
