Sweet Basil

(Ocimum basilicum)

Sweet Basil (Ocimum basilicum)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Ocimum basilicum, commonly known as Sweet Basil, is an aromatic annual herb in the mint family, though it can sometimes be perennial in warm, frost-free climates. It is native to tropical regions from central Africa to Southeast Asia. Sweet Basil typically reaches heights of 30 to 150 cm (1 to 5 ft) and is characterized by its richly green, ovate leaves that vary in size from 3 to 11 cm (1 to 4+1⁄2 in) long and 1 to 6 cm (1⁄2 to 2+1⁄2 in) wide, depending on the cultivar. The plant forms a thick, central taproot, and its flowers are small, white, and appear on a central spike. Basil is highly valued for its flavorful leaves, which are used in a variety of culinary dishes.

Sweet Basil is favored for its aromatic leaves that are essential in culinary use, particularly in Mediterranean and Southeast Asian cuisines. It is also appreciated for its ease of growth and maintenance in suitable climates. Commonly used in kitchen gardens, container gardening, and as a companion plant in vegetable gardens to repel pests, Basil thrives in well-drained, fertile soil and requires full sun exposure. It is sensitive to cold and should be planted outside after the last frost. Indoors, it grows well on sunny windowsills. Regular watering is necessary, but overwatering can cause stress, indicated by yellowing leaves at the plant’s base. Basil can be propagated from cuttings, and to encourage lush foliage, flower formation should be prevented as it halts leaf production and reduces essential oil content.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 1.5-2 feet
  • Width: 1.5-2 feet
  • Growth Rate: Rapid
  • Flower Color: White
  • Flowering Season: Summer, Fall
  • Leaf Retention:

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Slow, Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Fragrant, Low Maintenance, Potted Plant, Rabbit Resistant

Natural Habitat

Native to tropical regions from central Africa to Southeast Asia

Other Names

Common Names: Basil, Reihan, Basilienkraut, Basilikum, Albahaca, Basilic, Basilico, Basilicum, Manjericão, Alfavaca

Scientific Names: , Ocimum basilicum, Ocimum album, Ocimum thyrsiflorum, Ocimum citriodorum, Ocimum basilicum var. basilicum, Ocimum basilicum var. purpurascens, Ocimum basilicum var. thyrsiflorum, Ocimum basilicum var. difforme, Ocimum basilicum var. glabratum

GBIF Accepted Name: Ocimum basilicum L.