Alphabetical Plant Listing

Ocimum basilicum var. purpurascens 'Purple Ruffles' (Purple Basil)

Purple Basil 'Purple Ruffles', Basil Purple Ruffles


Noted for its beauty, flavor and ease of cultivation, Ocimum basilicum var. purpurascens 'Purple Ruffles' (Purple Basil) is an annual or biennial herb with very large, dark, shiny purple leaves which are ruffled and fringed. It has a sweet basil flavor with more licorice and cinnamon flavor. In summer, attractive spikes of small, small, tubular white or pink-tinged flowers arranged in whorls are borne above the foliage. While most basils are grown just for their leaves and flavor, Purple Ruffles Basil is also a striking beauty that is very ornamental in the garden.

  • All-America Selections winner (1987).
  • Grows up to 18-24 in. tall and wide (45-60 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.

Basil: Planting, Growing, and Harvesting

Learn how to plant, grow and harvest basil and add flavor to your favorite recipesRead More

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Requirements

Hardiness 2 – 11
Climate Zones 1, 1A, 1B, 2, 2A, 2B, 3, 3A, 3B, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, A1, A2, A3
Plant Type Annuals, Herbs
Plant Family Ocimum - Basil
Exposure Full Sun
Season of Interest Spring (Late)
Summer (Early,Mid,Late)
Fall
Height 1' – 2' (30cm – 60cm)
Spread 1' – 2' (30cm – 60cm)
Spacing 24" (60cm)
Water Needs Average
Maintenance Low
Soil Type Loam, Sand
Soil pH Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil Drainage Well-Drained
Characteristics Fragrant, Plant of Merit
Tolerance Deer, Rabbit
Attracts Bees, Butterflies
Garden Uses Beds and Borders, Patio and Containers
Garden Styles Informal and Cottage

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Botanik Foto

While every effort has been made to describe these plants accurately, please keep in mind that height, bloom time, and color may differ in various climates. The description of these plants has been written based on numerous outside resources.


Requirements

Hardiness 2 – 11
Climate Zones 1, 1A, 1B, 2, 2A, 2B, 3, 3A, 3B, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, A1, A2, A3
Plant Type Annuals, Herbs
Plant Family Ocimum - Basil
Exposure Full Sun
Season of Interest Spring (Late)
Summer (Early,Mid,Late)
Fall
Height 1' – 2' (30cm – 60cm)
Spread 1' – 2' (30cm – 60cm)
Spacing 24" (60cm)
Water Needs Average
Maintenance Low
Soil Type Loam, Sand
Soil pH Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil Drainage Well-Drained
Characteristics Fragrant, Plant of Merit
Tolerance Deer, Rabbit
Attracts Bees, Butterflies
Garden Uses Beds and Borders, Patio and Containers
Garden Styles Informal and Cottage

Guides with Ocimum - Basil

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