Red Rubin Basil Ocimum basilicum red-leaved
ABOUT
Red-leaved basil is a distinctive variety of the common basil plant, noted for its striking foliage that sets it apart from the classic green basil varieties. The leaves are characteristically a rich, deep purplish-red hue, which can add an ornamental appeal to gardens. These vibrant leaves are broad and slightly curled, with the same ovate shape as traditional basil leaves. The leaves possess a smooth texture, and the plant typically grows with a lush, bushy demeanor, making it attractive for both culinary and aesthetic applications. Red-leaved basil still produces the quintessential delicate, white flowers that one may expect from basil plants, and these blooms contrast beautifully with the darker foliage. In terms of aroma and flavor, this basil variety carries the same distinctive, pungent, and sweet fragrance associated with basil, with possibly a slight hint of cinnamon. The flavor profile of red-leaved basil is much like classic sweet basil, making it an excellent choice for culinary uses in a variety of dishes, especially where its unique color can make a visual impact.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Lamiaceae.
Synonyms
Red Basil, Purple Basil, Dark Opal Basil, Red Rubin Basil.
Common names
Ocimum basilicum var. purpurascens, Ocimum basilicum 'Purpurascens', Ocimum basilicum f. purpureum.
ToxicityTo humans
Red-leaved basil, a variety of sweet basil, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. It is widely used in cooking and as a seasoning herb without any toxic effects. As with any plant, some individuals may experience an allergic reaction or sensitivity to it, but it is not recognized for causing poisoning if ingested.
To pets
Red-leaved basil is also non-toxic to pets, including dogs and cats. It is a safe herb, even if your pet were to ingest it. However, as with humans, pets can have individual allergies or sensitivities to plants, so it is wise to observe your pet for any unusual reactions after ingestion.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Annuals
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Red
Flower color
White
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1 foot (30 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
10
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Culinary Uses: The leaves of Red Rubin Basil, as it's commonly known, are used to add flavor to various dishes, including Italian cuisine, pesto, salads, and infused oils.
- Aesthetic Appeal: The deep purple-red leaves of Red Rubin Basil offer an ornamental quality to gardens and can be used in decorative plantings or as an attractive garnish.
- Aromatic Qualities: The plant emits a pleasant fragrance, which can enhance the sensory experience of gardens, patios, and balconies.
- Companion Planting: Red Rubin Basil can deter pests due to its strong scent, making it a useful companion plant to protect vegetables like tomatoes.
- Pollinator Attraction: The flowers of Red Rubin Basil attract bees and other pollinators, supporting the health of your garden ecosystem.
- Easy to Grow: Suitable for beginner gardeners, this variety of basil is fairly easy to cultivate, whether in gardens or containers.
- Culinary Versatility: Its unique color and flavor make it a suitable ingredient for creating colorful vinegars, oils, and as a decorative touch in cuisine.
Medical Properties- Antibacterial activity: Red basil possesses compounds that have been found to inhibit the growth of certain bacteria.
- Antioxidant effect: It contains flavonoids and other phenolic compounds which act as antioxidants, protecting cells from oxidative stress.
- Anti-inflammatory properties: The essential oils in red basil can help reduce inflammation, which is associated with various diseases.
- Analgesic potential: It may offer mild pain relief due to its eugenol content.
- Stress reduction: Traditionally used as an adaptogen, red basil may help the body adapt to stress and promote mental balance.
- Digestive health: Red basil is sometimes used to soothe stomach spasms and aid in digestion.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Natural Dye: The red leaves of basil can be used to create a natural dye for fabrics or in crafts, giving materials a unique and subtle reddish hue.
- Aromatherapy: The distinct aroma of basil can be used in sachets or potpourri to provide a refreshing scent in drawers, closets, or rooms.
- Herbal Baths: Leaves of basil can be added to bathwater for a fragrant and relaxing bathing experience, helping to alleviate stress and tension.
- Flavoring Agent: Basil can be infused into oils or vinegars to create uniquely flavored condiments for cooking and salad dressings.
- Decorative Plant: With its vibrant red leaves, basil makes an attractive addition to floral arrangements or as a decorative plant in garden beds and borders.
- Companion Planting: When planted alongside other garden crops, basil can help repel certain insects and pests, benefiting the growth of neighboring plants.
- Natural Mulch: Dried and crushed basil leaves can be used as a mulch to help retain soil moisture and add nutrients as it decomposes.
- Culinary Garnish: The colorful leaves can be used as an ornamental garnish on dishes, providing an extra pop of color and flavor.
- Bookmark Creation: Dried basil leaves can be laminated or pressed to create unique, fragrant bookmarks for book lovers.
- Pet Bedding Freshener: Dried basil leaves can be sprinkled in pet bedding to help deodorize and provide a pleasant scent.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Red Basil is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Red Basil is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Love: Red-leaved basil, commonly known as Sweet Basil, is often associated with love, perhaps stemming from its rich, warm color and the sweetness of its fragrance. It's thought to be a symbol of romantic affection and is used in some cultures to express feelings of love.
- Protection: Sweet Basil is also believed to have protective qualities. It has been used in various cultures to ward off evil spirits or negative energies. Planting basil near the entrance of a home is thought to offer protection to the dwellers.
- Prosperity: This plant is sometimes linked to wealth and prosperity. The lush, vibrant leaves symbolize growth and abundance, suggesting that it may attract financial success and good fortune.
- Good Wishes: Sweet Basil has been used in rituals and ceremonies as a token of good wishes. Gifting a plant or leaves of basil is seen as a way of hoping for happiness and well-being for the recipient.
WaterRed Rubin basil requires consistent moisture, and it is best to water it when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, which may be approximately every 3 to 5 days, depending on climate conditions. Use room temperature water to gently soak the soil until water runs out of the bottom of the pot, indicating thorough saturation. As a guideline, this may equate to approximately 16 ounces of water for a small pot, increasing up to a gallon for larger pots. During hot, dry periods, more frequent watering may be necessary, while over the cooler months, watering should be reduced as the plant's growth slows down.
LightRed Rubin basil thrives in full sunlight, so it is best to place it in a spot where it can receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. An east or south-facing window is ideal when grown indoors, while an unobstructed outdoor area that gets strong sunlight is perfect for garden cultivation. Avoid locations where the plant will be in the shadow of taller plants or structures for part of the day.
TemperatureRed Rubin basil prefers warm temperatures and thrives in a range between 70°F and 80°F. It can survive minimum temperatures down to around 50°F, but growth will slow significantly or stop. The plant should be protected from temperatures below 50°F, as it is not frost-tolerant. Exposure to cold can damage or kill the plant.
PruningPruning Red Rubin basil encourages fuller growth and prevents early flowering, which can make the leaves bitter. Pinch off the tips of the stems when the plant is 6 to 8 inches tall to promote branching. Regularly harvest the leaves for culinary use, and remove any flower buds that appear to extend the harvesting season. The best time for heavy pruning is in late spring or early summer, just before the plant starts its rapid growth phase.
CleaningAs needed
SoilRed Rubin basil (Ocimum basilicum red-leaved) thrives best in a well-draining soil mix with compost. A good recipe for the soil mix includes two parts potting soil, one part perlite or sand, and one part compost. This plant prefers a slightly acidic to neutral pH of 6.0 to 7.0.
RepottingRed Rubin basil should generally be repotted once a year, ideally in the spring before the start of the growing season. Repotting is necessary when the plant outgrows its current pot or when the soil becomes depleted of nutrients.
Humidity & MistingRed Rubin basil prefers moderate humidity levels but is adaptable and can thrive in average home humidity conditions. Aim for a humidity level between 40% and 60% for ideal growth.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in a sunny window, water when topsoil dries.
Outdoor
Full sun, fertile soil, regular water, protect from frost.
Hardiness zone
9-11 USDA
Life cycleOcimum basilicum red-leaved, commonly known as Red Rubin Basil, begins its life cycle as a seed, typically germinating in warm soil with plenty of sunlight. After germination, it enters the seedling stage, where two cotyledon leaves appear before the true leaves develop. As it matures into the vegetative stage, the plant grows several pairs of these distinctive, purple-hued leaves and begins to form a bushy herb. During the flowering stage, if not pruned, the plant produces small white or purple flowers on a terminal spike, which are attractive to pollinators. After pollination, the plant can produce seeds, completing the cycle if the seeds are collected or naturally fall to the soil. However, to sustain leaf production, many gardeners pinch off flowers, prolonging the vegetative and harvesting stage before the plant eventually becomes woody and its growth slows, signaling the end of its life cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Summer
Red-leaved basil, a variety of Ocimum basilicum, is commonly propagated by seed. The best time to sow basil seeds is after the last frost when the soil has warmed up, usually in late spring or early summer. To propagate red-leaved basil by seeds, scatter them on the surface of a well-draining seed starting mix and lightly press them into the soil. They should not be covered with soil as basil seeds require light to germinate. Maintaining a temperature around 70 degrees Fahrenheit (21 degrees Celsius) and keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged can help ensure successful germination. Seedlings usually emerge in 7 to 14 days and can be thinned or transplanted to individual pots once they develop true leaves.
