Description
Botanical Name: Ocimum basilicum
Family: Laminaceae
Native: Probably Africa, but in cultivation for so long that it cannot be verified.
Hardiness: Frost-sensitive annual
Plant Dimensions: 18″–30″ tall
Variety Information: CINNAMON: 24″–30″ tall; looks like sweet basil but with red stems and pink flowers. Has a cinnamon fragrance and very sweet flavor. Use in fruit salads, jellies, and in fresh and dried flower arrangements. GENOVESE: 18″–24″ tall; large leaf green basil with spicy flavor and fragrance; this is the true Italian pesto basil from the Genoa area of Italy, the pesto capital of the world. LEMON: 18″ tall; small leaves, with a strong lemon fragrance and flavor. Nice in vinegar and complements dishes with a lemon base. LIME: 18″ tall; dark green, shiny leaves; sweet lime aroma with citrus flavor for memorable flavored oils and sauces. Use in desserts such as a delicious lime basil sorbet. LARGE LEAF: 18″–24″ tall, 10″ wide. Medium dark-green leaves and a sweet, “all-around” basil. ‘DARK OPAL’: 24″ tall, purple leaves with mild, sweet flavor just right for pesto, pasta, and salad; makes a lovely pink vinegar or oil. A beautiful addition to any garden.
Exposure: Full sun to part shade
Attributes: Good for Containers
