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Ocimum basilicum

Basil

Plant photo of: Ocimum basilicum
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Information by: Missouri Botanical Garden        Photographer:

 

Description

Ocimum basilicum, commonly called basil, is a native of Africa and Asia. Tradition has it that basil was found growing around Christ's tomb after the Resurrection, and consequently, some Greek Orthodox churches use it to prepare holy water and pots of basil are set below church altars. In India, basil was believed to be imbued with a divine essence, and oaths were sworn upon it in courts. A number of varieties exist today, ranging from a tiny-leafed Greek basil to robust 2-foot-high plants with large succulent leaves. Some varieties have deep purple leaves. While flowers are typically small and whitish, some can be pink to brilliant magenta. Leaves can be dried for later use. Basil is extremely frost sensitive.

 

Plant Type

Annual, Herb

Height Range

Under 1'

Flower Color

Red

Flower Season

Spring

Leaf Color

Green

Bark Color

n/a

Fruit Color

n/a

Fruit Season

n/a

Sun

Full

Water

Medium

Growth Rate

Fast

Soil Type

Loam

Soil Condition

Rich, Well-drained

Soil pH

Acid

Adverse Factors

n/a

Design Styles

English Cottage, Formal

Accenting Features

Unusual Foliage

Seasonal Interest

Spring

Location Uses

Perennial Border

Special Uses

Container

Attracts Wildlife

n/a

Water Saving Tip:

Change spray sprinklers to low-flow bubbler or drip systems. Shrubs and trees are ideal candidates for this type of irrigation because the water is applied directly to the root zones.