Basil
Ocimum basilicum
Genovese
About this plant
Basil is a popular aromatic herb known for its bright green leaves and strong, sweet scent. It is widely used in cooking, especially in Italian and Southeast Asian dishes. Basil grows as a bushy plant and can reach about 60 cm tall. It produces small white or purple flowers if allowed to bloom.
Taxonomy
- Genus
- Ocimum
- Family
- Lamiaceae
- Higher classification
- Order Lamiales
- Plant type
- Herb
- Lifespan
- Annual
Origin & Distribution
- Native region
- India, Central Africa, Southeast Asia
- Distribution
- Cultivated worldwide, especially in warm climates and home gardens.
Care
- Light preference
- Full sun
- Suitable locations
- Indoor, Outdoor, Balcony, Greenhouse
- Preferred window facing
- South-facing, Southeast-facing, Southwest-facing
- Watering frequency
- Moderate
- Watering interval
- 2–4 days
- Humidity
- Normal
- Minimum
- 10 °C
- Maximum
- 35 °C
- Optimal
- 18-30 °C
- USDA hardiness zones
- 10-11
- Soil pH
- 6.0-7.5
- Soil type
- well-draining loam or potting soil mix
Watering. Water basil regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings.
Fertilizing. Feed basil with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 4 to 6 weeks during the growing season to encourage healthy growth.
Basil is a fast-growing herb that thrives in warm, sunny spots. It prefers well-draining soil and regular watering but dislikes soggy conditions. With basic care, it grows well indoors or outdoors and rarely has serious problems.
Propagation
- Propagation methods
- Seeds, Cuttings
- Care difficulty
- Easy
Ornamental features
- Flowering
- Yes
- Flowering period
- summer
Bright green, fragrant leaves and small white or purple flowers.
Toxicity & Safety
- Toxic to humans
- Non-toxic
- Toxic to pets
- Non-toxic
- Weed potential
- Not considered a weed
Basil is safe to have around children and pets; it is non-toxic if ingested.
Allergy information
- Allergy risk
- Low
- Allergy triggers
- Pollen, Skin contact, Fragrance
- Pollen level
- Low
Basil can cause mild allergic reactions in some people, especially those sensitive to its pollen or essential oils. Symptoms may include skin irritation or sneezing. To reduce exposure, avoid direct contact if you have sensitive skin and keep basil plants away from your face when handling.
Common problems
Basil can suffer from overwatering leading to root rot, or from pests like aphids and whiteflies. Lack of sunlight may cause leggy growth and poor flavor.
Uses
Basil is mainly used as a culinary herb to flavor dishes. It is also grown for its pleasant aroma and as an ornamental plant in gardens and pots.
Notes
Pinch off flower buds to encourage leaf growth and prevent the plant from becoming woody. Repot or sow new seeds each year as basil is an annual plant.