Basil, an aromatic herb with a delightful fragrance and flavor, and a versatile and popular addition to culinary dishes, gardens, and even herbal remedies.
Fragrant, flavorful, and easy to grow, basil is a staple herb in kitchens and gardens around the world. Whether used fresh or dried, its aromatic leaves elevate everything from sauces and salads to meats and marinades.
Origin and Family: Basil (Ocimum basilicum) is a beloved member of the mint family (Lamiaceae), related to rosemary, mint, sage, oregano, and thyme. Native to tropical Asia, it made its way to the Mediterranean with the Greeks and Romans and eventually spread across Europe and the Americas. Today, dozens of varieties offer a dazzling range of flavors, leaf colors, and textures—from classic sweet basil to bold Thai and lemon types.
Growth Habit and Climate Needs: Most basil plants are tender perennials that thrive in hot, sunny climates. In cooler climates, they are usually grown as aromatic annuals. Adaptable to the heat, Basil is a warm-season herb that is frost-sensitive and does not survive a light frost, so plant it after the danger of frost has passed.
Harvest Time and Ease of Cultivation: Depending on varieties, Basil is ready to harvest 60 to 90 days after planting. It is regarded as one of the easiest plants to grow—perfect for gardeners of all levels.
Growing Basil Indoors or Outdoors: Equally at home on a windowsill or in the garden, basil thrives in a sunny, sheltered spot with well-draining soil. Whether you grow it in pots, raised beds, or tucked among your tomatoes, it delivers beauty, fragrance, and flavor in abundance.
Hardiness |
3 - 11 |
---|---|
Plant Type | Annuals, Herbs, Perennials |
Plant Family | Lamiaceae |
Genus | Ocimum |
Exposure | Full Sun |
Season of Interest | Spring (Late), Summer (Early, Mid, Late), Fall |
Maintenance | Low |
Water Needs | Average |
Soil Type | Loam, Sand |
Soil pH | Acid, Alkaline, Neutral |
Soil Drainage | Well-Drained |
Characteristics | Fragrant, Showy |
Tolerance | Rabbit, Deer |
Attracts | Bees, Butterflies |
Landscaping Ideas | Patio And Containers, Beds And Borders |
Garden Styles | City and Courtyard, Informal and Cottage, Mediterranean Garden |
Hardiness |
3 - 11 |
---|---|
Plant Type | Annuals, Herbs, Perennials |
Plant Family | Lamiaceae |
Genus | Ocimum |
Exposure | Full Sun |
Season of Interest | Spring (Late), Summer (Early, Mid, Late), Fall |
Maintenance | Low |
Water Needs | Average |
Soil Type | Loam, Sand |
Soil pH | Acid, Alkaline, Neutral |
Soil Drainage | Well-Drained |
Characteristics | Fragrant, Showy |
Tolerance | Rabbit, Deer |
Attracts | Bees, Butterflies |
Landscaping Ideas | Patio And Containers, Beds And Borders |
Garden Styles | City and Courtyard, Informal and Cottage, Mediterranean Garden |
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Create a membership account to save your garden designs and to view them on any device.
Becoming a contributing member of Gardenia is easy and can be done in just a few minutes. If you provide us with your name, email address and the payment of a modest $25 annual membership fee, you will become a full member, enabling you to design and save up to 25 of your garden design ideas.
Join now and start creating your dream garden!