Basil is a an annual herb belonging to the mint family. There are over 60 cultivated varieties of the most popular species, Ocimum basilicum, or Sweet Basil. The name ocimum comes from a Greek verb meaning “to be fragrant”. Simply brushing against the plant releases a wonderful aroma. Basils’ rich, slightly peppery flavor with hints of clove and mint make it a popular culinary herb. The essential oils of basil are used for flavoring and for perfumes, soaps and shampoos. Some varieties even do double-duty as beautiful ornamental plants.
| Name | Size | Description and Use |
| African Blue | 36" | A gorgeous large decorative basil with foliage that emerges purple, then changes to green with purple veins. Pinkish purple flower spikes. Very high in camphor oil. Not recommended for culinary use. |
| Genovese | 24" | Large leaves with classic sweet basil flavor make this type the cook’s favorite for pesto, caprese and Italian dishes. |
| Greek Columnar | 24" | This narrow, small-leaved variety is great in pots or where space is limited. Rarely flowers, so fresh tasty leaves are produced all season. The flavor is classic basil with spicy overtones. |
| Mammoth | 24" | Very large, ruffled leaves are excellent for wrapping chopped beef and vegetables. The flavor is strong and sweet. |
| Minette | 10" | Dainty dwarf variety grows in a perfect globe shape. Tiny leaves with classic basil flavor are great in tomato dishes, salads and soup. |
| Pesto Perpetuo | 18" | Compact, variegated form with pretty pale green and white leaves. Does not flower, so fresh leaves are produced all season. Beautiful as an accent. Perfect in pesto! |
| Purple Ruffles | 18" | Large, frilly leaves are a striking deep purple color with a fragrance and flavor a bit stronger than Sweet basil. Great for adding color and flavor to herb vinegar. |
| Red Rubin | 18"" | Purple foliage holds its color all season. Sweet, clove-like basil flavor. Compact form. A beautiful ornamental plant. Great in herb vinegar. |
| Siam Queen | 24"" | Disease resistant variety with licorice fragrance and flavor. Purple flower spikes. Great in Asian cooking. |
| Spicy Globe | 12" | Small, neatly rounded plant with small leaves and a sweet, spicy flavor. Makes a delightful edging plant. |
| Sweet Dani | 24" | From a research project at Purdue University. Large leaves with intense lemon flavor. Steep leaves in hot water for a tea, sprinkle on salads or use in chicken and fish dishes. |
| Sweet | 24" | Most common basil. Large leaves with classic basil flavor. Good in pesto, salads and for general seasoning. |
Helpful Basil How-To's:
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