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Purple Basil

Purple basil isn’t just beautiful—it’s flavorful, functional, and full of surprises. A colorful standout in the basil family, this variety of Ocimum basilicum adds striking visual interest and intense flavor to gardens and kitchens alike.

Popular purple basil varieties include the classic Dark Opal Basil with its glossy, deep-purple leaves and mild clove-like flavor, and Purple Ruffles, a showy cultivar with frilly, textured foliage and a slightly spicier taste. Both are ornamental and edible—perfect for edible landscaping.

These purple basil plants grow 18–24 inches (45–60 cm) tall and thrive in full sun and fertile, well-drained soil. Like other herbs grown indoors, they do well in containers on sunny windowsills.

Uses of purple basil range from bold herbal teas and unique pesto to garnishes that elevate salads and cocktails. Its vibrant color also contains anthocyanins—antioxidants believed to have health benefits.

Let it flower to enjoy edible blossoms and attract bees and butterflies. For maximum leaf production and flavor, pinch flower buds regularly.

Deer and rabbit resistant due to their aromatic oils, purple basil plants make excellent companions in vegetable beds. And they’re non-toxic to pets, making them a safe, family-friendly option.

Explore more flavorful basil types like Genovese Basil, Lemon Basil, Thai Basil, and Greek Basil.

Dark Opal Basil, Purple Basil, Black Basil, Sweet Basil, Ocimum basilicum
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