Purple Ruffles Basil Ocimum basilicum var. purpurascens 'Purple Ruffles'
ABOUT
The plant known as 'Purple Ruffles' basil is cherished for its distinctive deep purple, almost burgundy, foliage that boasts an attractive ruffled texture. Each leaf is broad and significantly crinkled along its edges, enriching its aesthetic appeal. These leaves possess a glossy finish with a richly colored hue that gets darker as the plant matures. The overall form of the plant is compact and bushy, giving it a lush and voluminous appearance. Occasionally, it may produce small pink or lavender flowers that further accent its ornamental qualities. The leaves are not only visually striking but are also aromatic, emitting a robust and spicy scent similar to that of traditional green basil, which is why it's often used in culinary dishes to add both flavor and visual contrast.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Lamiaceae
Synonyms
Purple Ruffles Basil, Purple Basil, Ornamental Basil
Common names
Ocimum basilicum var. purpurascens 'Purple Ruffles'.
ToxicityTo humans
Purple Basil, as Ocimum basilicum var. purpurascens 'Purple Ruffles' is commonly known, is not toxic to humans. In fact, it is often used as a culinary herb. There are no known toxic effects from ingesting Purple Basil in typical quantities used for cooking. However, as with any plant, consuming it in extremely large amounts may cause gastrointestinal discomfort or an allergic reaction in some individuals.
To pets
Purple Basil is generally considered non-toxic to pets as well. As with humans, it is utilized in cooking and there are no reported cases of toxicity in animals such as cats and dogs from consuming the leaves or stems of this plant. However, as with any food item that is not a regular part of a pet's diet, it could potentially cause some gastrointestinal upset or an allergic reaction if ingested in large quantities.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Annuals
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Purple
Flower color
White
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
10
Native area
Africa Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Culinary Use: Purple Ruffles basil adds an attractive purple hue and a sweet, slightly spicy flavor to various dishes, including salads, pesto, and sauces.
- Aesthetic Appeal: The plant's deep purple leaves and ruffled edges make it a visually striking addition to gardens and pots, enhancing garden aesthetics.
- Attracts Pollinators: It can attract bees and other beneficial pollinators to the garden, which is essential for plant reproduction and ecosystem health.
- Herb Garden Variety: It contributes to the diversity of an herb garden with its unique color and form.
- Edible Flowers: The flowers of Purple Ruffles basil are also edible and can be used as a decorative and flavorful garnish.
- Companion Planting: When planted alongside other garden vegetables, it might contribute to a more balanced and mutually beneficial plant ecosystem.
- Aromatic Properties: The plant emits a pleasant fragrance, making it a great choice for sensory gardens.
- Cooking Versatility: The leaves can be used fresh or dried, offering versatility in cooking and seasoning.
- Culinary Presentation: Its distinctive leaves can offer a dramatic presentation for dishes that benefit from a pop of color.
- Easy to Grow: Like most basil varieties, it is relatively easy to cultivate, making it a good choice for both experienced and novice gardeners.
Medical Properties- Essential Oils: Contains essential oils that are thought to have antibacterial and antifungal properties.
- Anti-Inflammatory: May provide anti-inflammatory benefits when consumed or applied topically.
- Antioxidants: Rich in antioxidants which can help to protect the body from oxidative stress.
- Stress Reduction: Aromatherapy using the plant's essential oils might have calming effects on the nervous system.
- Digestive Health: Traditionally used to relieve digestive issues such as stomach cramps and indigestion.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Natural fabric dye: The vibrant purple leaves of Purple Ruffles basil can be used as a natural dye for fabrics, imparting a range of purple and lavender hues.
- Decorative ice cubes: Freeze small leaves or petals from the 'Purple Ruffles' basil in ice cube trays to create visually striking ice cubes for elegant drinks.
- Aromatic bath sachets: Dried 'Purple Ruffles' basil can be included in bath sachets to provide a relaxing and fragrant bathing experience.
- Floral arrangements: The richly colored leaves add a unique and ornamental element to floral displays and bouquets.
- Homemade potpourri: Using dried 'Purple Ruffles' basil leaves in potpourri adds both color and a pleasing aroma to the mix.
- Bookmarks: Pressing the purple leaves between the pages of a heavy book can create decorative and aromatic bookmarks.
- Garden borders: Plant 'Purple Ruffles' basil along garden paths or borders for a dual-purpose ornamental and culinary display.
- Aromatic drawer liners: Dried leaves can be used to line drawers, imparting a fresh scent to linens and clothing.
- Culinary garnish: Though typically known for its flavor, 'Purple Ruffles' basil can also serve as an eye-catching garnish on dishes due to its deep color and ruffled texture.
- Compost color booster: Adding 'Purple Ruffles' basil to a compost pile can introduce more color variety, which can be aesthetically pleasing for open compost systems.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Purple Basil is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Purple Basil is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Royalty - The deep purple color of the 'Purple Ruffles' basil is often associated with nobility and royalty, suggesting a sense of majesty and elevated status.
- Love - Basil in general is considered a symbol of love in some cultures, and giving a potted basil like 'Purple Ruffles' can be symbolic of one’s romantic intentions or affection.
- Good Wishes - In folklore, basil is said to convey best wishes and good fortune, making it a common plant to gift to friends and family.
- Protection - Traditionally, basil has been believed to have protective qualities, warding off evil spirits and misfortune which extends to 'Purple Ruffles' as well.
- Mourning - In Greek culture, basil is associated with mourning and is sometimes used to show sympathy for someone's loss or in remembrance ceremonies.
- Culinary Delight - Basil, including 'Purple Ruffles', is widely acknowledged as a symbol of fine cuisine, representing a passion for cooking and appreciation for gourmet experiences.
WaterPurple Ruffles Basil should be watered when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, which typically means watering approximately once a week. It's important to water this plant deeply, ensuring moisture reaches the roots. For indoor potted plants, this usually translates to about 8 to 16 ounces of water, depending on the size of the pot and the indoor conditions. Outdoor plants may require up to 1 gallon every week during hot, dry periods. Avoid overhead watering to reduce the risk of fungal diseases and water early in the morning to allow foliage to dry before nightfall.
LightPurple Ruffles Basil thrives in full sun conditions, meaning it should receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. A south-facing window or a spot in your garden that gets ample sunlight throughout the day is ideal for this plant. If grown indoors, ensure it is positioned where the sunlight is strongest, or supplement with grow lights if natural light is insufficient.
TemperaturePurple Ruffles Basil prefers warm temperatures and will grow best when conditions are between 70°F and 80°F. It can survive a minimum temperature down to 50°F, but growth may be stunted below this point. Maximum temperatures should not exceed 95°F, as extreme heat can be detrimental to the plant. Providing some afternoon shade during the hottest part of the day can help manage temperature extremes.
PruningPurple Ruffles Basil should be pruned regularly to encourage bushy growth and to prevent it from flowering, which can affect the flavor of the leaves. Pinch or clip off the tips of the plant and remove any flowers that begin to form. Pruning is best done during the growing season, ideally every 2 to 3 weeks. Early morning is the best time for pruning, allowing the plant to heal throughout the day.
CleaningAs needed
SoilPurple Ruffles basil thrives in a well-draining soil mix rich in organic matter with a pH ranging from 6.0 to 7.5. A recommended mix is equal parts of potting soil, compost, and perlite to ensure good drainage and fertility.
RepottingPurple Ruffles basil should be repotted annually to replenish nutrients and encourage healthy growth. Choose a slightly larger pot each time to accommodate the root system.
Humidity & MistingPurple Ruffles basil prefers moderate humidity levels ranging from 40% to 70%; avoid overly dry air which can lead to stress and leaf issues.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright light, warm temps, and moderate water.
Outdoor
Full sun, well-draining soil, regular watering.
Hardiness zone
10-11 USDA
Life cycle'Purple Ruffles' Basil (Ocimum basilicum var. purpurascens) begins its life as a seed, which when sown in warm, well-drained soil, usually germinates within 7 to 14 days. The seedlings rapidly develop true leaves and enter the vegetative stage, where lush, purple, ruffled foliage proliferates especially well with ample sunlight and water. After a few weeks to a couple of months, the basil plant reaches maturity and enters the flowering stage, characterized by spikes of small flowers that can be white, pink, or lavender. If flowers are not removed, they will complete the reproduction cycle by producing seeds, allowing for self-sowing or collection for future planting. If regularly harvested or pruned to discourage flowering, 'Purple Ruffles' Basil can extend its vegetative stage, enhancing foliage production for culinary use. As an annual, its lifecycle concludes at the end of the growing season or with the first frost, which causes the plant to die.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method to propagate 'Purple Ruffles' basil, a variety of Ocimum basilicum, is through seed. Seeds should be sown in early spring, after the last frost, or started indoors 6 to 8 weeks before the last expected frost. Sow the seeds about 1/4 inch deep in well-draining soil and keep the soil moist until germination, which typically occurs within 7 to 14 days. Seedlings can be thinned or transplanted when they have two sets of true leaves. For indoor propagation, maintaining a temperature around 70 degrees Fahrenheit (21 degrees Celsius) can encourage faster germination. Once the seedlings are strong enough and the risk of frost has passed, they can be moved to an outdoor garden or container, ensuring they receive full sun to partial shade for the best growth.
