Lime basil Ocimum × africanum 'Lime'
ABOUT
'Lime' is a short-lived bushy perennial to 50cm high and is often grown as an annual culinary herb. The dark green leaves are aromatic with a citrus scent; spikes of small whitish flowers appear in late summer and early autumn
About this plant
NamesFamily
Lamiaceae.
Synonyms
Lime Basil, African Blue Basil, Lime-African Basil.
Common names
Ocimum × africanum 'Lime'
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Annuals
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
9-11
Native area
Africa
Benefits
General Benefits- Culinary Uses: Lime Basil can be used in a variety of dishes to add a citrusy flavor, especially in sauces, dressings, and marinades.
- Aromatic Qualities: The plant emits a lime-like fragrance, which can be pleasant in the garden or when used in potpourri.
- Attracts Pollinators: Lime Basil can attract bees and other pollinating insects, supporting biodiversity and garden health.
- Easy to Grow: It is relatively easy to cultivate and can be grown in pots or gardens, making it suitable for many growers.
- Ornamental Use: With its bright green leaves and small flowers, it can be used as a decorative plant in landscaping.
- Culinary Versatility: The leaves can be used fresh or dried for various culinary applications, offering flexibility in the kitchen.
Medical Properties- Antioxidant: May contain compounds that help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
- Anti-inflammatory: Potential to reduce inflammation, which may help in conditions like arthritis.
- Antimicrobial: Has been used to fight against certain strains of bacteria and fungi.
- Anxiolytic: Thought to have stress-relieving and calming effects, potentially benefiting those with anxiety.
- Antidiabetic: Some studies suggest it could help in regulating blood sugar levels.
- Digestive aid: May help in digestion and relieve gastrointestinal issues such as bloating or indigestion.
- Analgesic: Could provide relief from pain, similar to other members of the mint family.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Ocimum × africanum 'Lime', commonly known as Lime Basil, can be used as a natural insect repellent, its strong citrus scent helps keep mosquitoes and other insects at bay.
- The essential oil from Lime Basil can be used in aromatherapy to uplift mood and alleviate stress due to its refreshing and energizing aroma.
- The plant can be employed in potpourris and scented sachets, providing a long-lasting, natural lime fragrance to closets, drawers, and living spaces.
- Lime Basil can be used in the craft of making natural dyes; the leaves, when boiled, can impart a yellowish-green tint to fabrics.
- As a companion plant in the garden, it can deter harmful pests and at the same time attract beneficial pollinators like bees and butterflies.
- In culinary arts, aside from flavoring dishes, the finely chopped leaves can be added to homemade pastas or bread for a hint of lime flavor.
- It can be incorporated into homemade natural cleaning solutions for its refreshing scent and potential antibacterial properties, enhancing the cleaning experience.
- The leaves can be used to infuse oils and vinegars, creating a citrus-flavored condiment for salads and cooking purposes.
- Lime Basil can be used to make a natural hair rinse that can add a refreshing scent to the hair and provide a soothing effect to the scalp.
- In the art of flower arranging, the bright green, fragrant leaves of Lime Basil can provide a contrast in both color and texture to floral bouquets.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Lime Basil is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Lime Basil is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Refreshment: The 'Lime' Basil, with its citrusy undertones, symbolizes freshness and the revitalizing quality that lime is known for, bringing a sense of rejuvenation.
- Healing: As an herb often used in traditional medicine, Lime Basil can represent healing and the soothing of ailments, both physically and mentally.
- Culinary Enjoyment: Known for its unique flavor, Lime Basil is a symbol of culinary creativity and the joy of cooking and eating.
- Prosperity: Basil in general is considered a symbol of prosperity and abundance, and the Lime Basil variety shares this symbolism due to its lush growth and versatile uses.
- Love: In some cultures, basil is a token of love. Lime Basil, with its vibrant essence, can also be associated with this passionate sentiment.
WaterLime Basil needs consistent moisture, so water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Typically, this equates to watering once every week, but this frequency may increase to twice a week in hot, dry conditions. When watering, use enough water to reach the roots, which is approximately one gallon for a mature plant every week during peak summer heat. Always water at the base to avoid wetting the foliage, which can lead to fungal diseases, and in the morning to allow any accidental splashes on the leaves to dry out over the course of the day.
LightLime Basil thrives in full sunlight, requiring a minimum of six hours of direct sunlight each day. The best spot for the plant is in a south-facing location where it can receive ample sunlight without obstruction. However, in extremely hot climates, it benefits from light shade during the hottest part of the day to prevent scorching of the leaves.
TemperatureLime Basil prefers warm conditions and grows best at temperatures between 70°F and 90°F. It's vulnerable to frost and should not be exposed to temperatures below 50°F. When planted outdoors, ensure it's after the danger of the last frost for your area has passed, and be prepared to offer protection or move the plant indoors if unexpected cold weather occurs.
PruningRegularly pruning Lime Basil promotes bushier growth and prevents the plant from becoming leggy. Prune or pinch back the tips every few weeks, especially before the plant flowers, to encourage branching. The best time for pruning is early morning when the plant is well-hydrated and the essential oils are the most concentrated. Post-bloom, cut back the flowering stems to maintain leaf production.
CleaningAs needed
SoilLime Basil prefers well-draining, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5. An ideal mix is equal parts potting soil, compost, and perlite to ensure proper drainage and nutrient content.
RepottingLime Basil should be repotted annually to refresh the soil and accommodate growth, ideally done in the spring just before the growing season begins.
Humidity & MistingLime Basil thrives in moderate to high humidity levels but can tolerate average household humidity if other growing conditions are met.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright light, well-draining soil, and regular watering.
Outdoor
Place in full sun, protect from frost, and use well-draining soil.
Hardiness zone
Lime Basil is suitable for 9-11 USDA.
Life cycleThe Lime Basil, known scientifically as Ocimum × africanum 'Lime', starts its life as a seed, typically germinating in warm soil within 5 to 10 days. Upon successful germination, it emerges as a seedling with a set of true leaves following the initial cotyledons. As the plant matures, it develops a bushy structure adorned with bright green, fragrant leaves, usually reaching this stage in 6 to 8 weeks after sowing. During the blooming stage, which occurs in late spring to summer, Lime Basil produces small white or lavender flowers arranged in spikes, attracting pollinators. Following pollination, seeds form and mature, ready to be harvested in late summer if seed collection is desired. The plant completes its life cycle when it either dies back at the end of the growing season in temperate zones or may continue to grow as a perennial in warmer climates with appropriate care.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Summer
The most popular method of propagating Ocimum × africanum 'Lime', also known as Lime Basil, is by seed. Sow the seeds in well-draining soil during spring after the last frost when the soil has warmed to at least 70°F (about 21°C). Scatter the seeds on top of the soil and gently press them in, as they need light to germinate, but do not cover them with soil. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Seeds usually germinate within 7 to 14 days. Once seedlings are large enough to handle, usually when they have two sets of true leaves, thin them out or transplant them to their final growing location ensuring they are spaced about 10 to 12 inches (approximately 25 to 30 cm) apart to allow for adequate air circulation and growth.
