Spikenard (Nardostachys grandiflora; also called nard, nardin, and muskroot) is a flowering plant that grows in the Himalayas of China, India and Nepal. The plant grows to about 1 m in height and has pink, bell-shaped flowers.
Spikenard rhizomes (underground stems) can be crushed and distilled into an intensely aromatic amber-colored essential oil, which is very thick in consistency.
Mary of Bethany broke the alabastar jar containing 16 ounces (a pound of Nard) of this oil and poured it over Jesus. She wiped it up with her hair. See John 12.
