Ocimum basilicum ‘Everleaf Emerald Towers’ (Basil)

Noted for its columnar habit, Ocimum basilicum ‘Everleaf Emerald Towers’ (Sweet Basil) is an annual herb boasting large dark green, glossy leaves with a Genovese flavor. They are perfect for eating fresh in Caprese salad or chopped fresh in recipes. This Basil flowers late in the season, so there is no need to worry about pinching flowers off to keep your basil producing tender leaves. A well-branched variety that stays tidy for many uses, including in-ground, container gardens, and hydroponics.

• Grows up to 24-36 in. tall (60-90 cm) and 8-12 in. wide (20-30 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.