Ocimum basilicum ‘Dolce Fresca’ (Sweet Basil)

Adding a great Mediterranean taste to the cuisine, Ocimum basilicum ‘Dolce Fresca’ (Sweet Basil) is an annual herb boasting sweet tender leaves that can be used for tomato sauce, spaghetti, stews, fish, salads, or pesto. It has the mild flavor of anise with a slight mint aftertaste. While most basils are grown just for their leaves and flavor, Dolce Fresca Basil is also quite ornamental in the garden as it maintains an attractive, compact, and bushy shape. A popular herb for growing at home, both in gardens and containers.

• All-America Selections winner (2015).
• Grows up to 12-14 in. tall (30-35 cm) and 10-12 in. wide (25-30 cm).
• Performs best in light, well-drained, fertile soil in a sheltered position in full sun. Water freely in summer. Basil is extremely frost sensitive.
• Harvest mature leaves for fresh use at any time.
• Although Basil naturally repels mosquitoes and flies, it attracts bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects to the garden.
• Basil is a valuable addition to the vegetable garden and an excellent companion plant for tomatoes, peppers, parsley, lettuce, asparagus, beans, beets, cabbage, eggplant, marigolds, potatoes, or oregano. Avoid planting Basil near Rue (Ruta graveolens) and Sage (Salvia officinalis).
• While Basil makes a colorful and flavorful addition to many dishes, it can also provide some health benefits. Basil contains many vitamins and minerals, as well as antioxidants and essential oils. However, all these great compounds disappear during the process of drying, so opt for fresh basil whenever possible to enjoy the most benefits. Basil can help reduce inflammation in the body, lower blood pressure, fight free radicals, and reduce high blood sugar levels. Basil has antibacterial properties.
• No serious pest or disease issues. Keep an eye out for slugs, snails, and powdery mildews. Deer and rabbit resistant.
• Pinch out flowerheads as they appear to ensure continued leaf growth. Cut back after flowering.
• Propagate by seed in gentle heat in spring under glass or indoors.