An improved Thai basil or tropical basil, Ocimum basilicum 'Siam Queen' is a vigorous annual herb boasting highly aromatic, glossy green leaves rich of a licorice basil aroma. As an added bonus, it is late to produce flowers, which often make basil develop a bitter taste. In many Thai dishes, Thai basil is added last, just prior to serving for its fragrance and flavor. While most basils are grown just for their leaves and flavor, Siam Queen Basil is prized for both its culinary use and ornamental qualities: green foliage and attractive lavender flowers. Remember it is of tropical origin, so provide warm soil and air temperatures for rapid vigorous growth.

• All-America Selections winner (1997).
• Grows up to 20-24 in. tall and wide (50-60 cm).
• Performs best in fertile, well-drained soils in full sun. Water freely in summer. Provide a sheltered site. Basil is extremely frost sensitive.
• Harvest mature leaves for fresh use at any time. To dry the leaves, hang out of direct light, then store in an airtight container in a cool place.
• Keep an eye out for leafhoppers, aphids, slugs, snails and powdery mildews. Deer and rabbit resistant.
• Pinch out flower heads to promote bushy plant growth and to extend the plant’s productive life.