Meet Ocimum basilicum, or as it's more commonly known, Basil. This charming, sweet-smelling herb is not just a kitchen staple, it's also a star player in your garden. With its emerald to mauve leaves and rose to alabaster flowers, Basil is a feast for the eyes and the nose!
Ocimum basilicum
Partial To Full Sun
Can handle a mix of direct and bright light throughout the day.
High Water Needs
Requires frequent watering to maintain moist soil but doesn't tolerate standing water. Needs regular attention and good drainage. Best suited for dedicated indoor gardeners or outdoor spaces with intensive care.
Adaptable to Sand and Silt Loam
Grows well in sand and silt loam soils, adapting to these soil conditions. Needs frequent watering. Requires good soil drainage.
Moderately Adaptable Soil pH
Adapts well to acidic (pH < 6.5) and neutral (pH 6.5-7.5) soil conditions.
Safe For Humans
No known toxic effects or skin irritation risks.
Safe for All Animals
No known safety risks to pets or livestock.
57%
Adaptability Score
100%
Safety Score
About Ocimum basilicum
Basil is a one-year plant that can grow anywhere between 4 inches to 3 feet tall and 4 to 14 inches wide. Its leaves are a sight to behold, ranging from emerald to mauve, and sometimes even speckled or snowy. But the real showstopper is its flowers. Blooming in hot weather, they come in shades of rose, mauve, and alabaster, adding a pop of color to your garden.
Did you know that Basil is also a medicinal plant? It's been used for centuries in traditional medicine for its health benefits.
Also known as
Basil
Basilie
Common basil
Eorþmistel
Sulasih
Sweet basil
Sweet-Basil
Edibility
Yes, Basil is not just a pretty face, it's also a culinary delight. Its leaves are highly valued in the kitchen, adding a unique flavor to a variety of dishes. Plus, they're odorous, making your kitchen smell divine every time you use them.
Our design recommendations
Basil is perfect for group planting, adding a lush, vibrant look to your garden. Its height and width make it ideal for urns or confined spaces. Plus, its sweet-smelling flowers attract pollinators, making it an eco-friendly choice for your garden. Basil is a versatile plant that can be planted in a variety of landscape locations. It thrives in urns and confined spaces, making it a great choice for small gardens or balconies.