Basil, Sweet Basil
- Sun Preference
- Full-Sun, Part-Sun
Description
Sweet Basil is an annual herb that is commonly grown for its edible qualities. The fragrant oval light green leaves are usually harvested from early summer to early fall. The leaves have a potent taste.
Direct from the Grower
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Details
Sweet Basil | Ocimum basilicum
Hardiness Zone: (annual)
Edible Qualities
Sweet Basil is an annual herb that is commonly grown for its edible qualities. The fragrant oval light green leaves are usually harvested from early summer to early fall. The leaves have a potent taste.
The leaves are most often used in the following ways:
- Fresh Eating
- Cooking
- Seasoning
Planting & Growing
Sweet Basil will grow to be about 18 inches tall at maturity, with a spread of 12 inches. When grown in masses or used as a bedding plant, individual plants should be spaced approximately 10 inches apart. This fast-growing annual will normally live for one full growing season, needing replacement the following year.
This plant is typically grown in a designated herb garden. It should only be grown in full sunlight. It prefers to grow in average to moist conditions, and shouldn't be allowed to dry out. It is not particular as to soil type or pH. It is somewhat tolerant of urban pollution. This species is not originally from North America.
Sweet Basil is a good choice for the edible garden, but it is also well-suited for use in outdoor pots and containers. It is often used as a 'filler' in the 'spiller-thriller-filler' container combination, providing the canvas against which the larger thriller plants stand out. Note that when growing plants in outdoor containers and baskets, they may require more frequent waterings than they would in the yard or garden.
More Information
Common Family Name | Herbs |
---|---|
Sun Preference | Full-Sun, Part-Sun |
Plant Life Cycle | Annual |
Mature Height (Range) | 13" - 24" |
Mature Spread (Range) | 12" - 24" |