Basil Ocimum basilicum
ABOUT
Ocimum basilicum, also known as sweet basil, is an annual herb that is typically grown for its fragrant leaves. The plant has a green stem that can reach up to 2-3 feet in height, depending on the variety and conditions. The leaves are green, glossy, and oval-shaped, with serrated edges. They can be either large or small, depending on the variety. The plant also produces small, white or purple flowers that grow on spikes at the top of the plant.
The plant's leaves have a characteristic sweet, pungent, and spicy aroma that is often used in cooking. The aroma is most potent when the leaves are crushed or torn.
Overall, the sweet basil is a hardy and attractive herb with the classic basil aroma which is ideal for adding to your garden or potting. It's also relatively easy to grow and maintain, making it a popular choice for both experienced and new gardeners.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Lamiaceae
Synonyms
Great basil, Sweet basil, Common basil, Greek royal, Kiss-me-Nicholas, Lemon basil, Genovese basil, Holy basil, Saint Joseph's wort, Thai basil
Common names
Ocimum album, Ocimum thyrsiflorum
ToxicityTo humans
It is considered safe to consume and is widely used in cooking as a flavorful herb. However, as with any plant, it's best to use it in moderation and avoid consuming large quantities. Some people might experience an allergic reaction, or skin irritation when handling the plant.
To pets
Ocimum basilicum is not considered toxic to animals in general.
While in normal consumption of small quantities of the plant is not dangerous for animals, however, as with any plant, it's best to avoid letting animals consume large quantities of sweet basil as it might cause digestive upset. Additionally, like humans, some animals might experience an allergic reaction or skin irritation when handling the plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Annuals
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White, pink
Height
Up to 3 feet
Spread
Up to 3 feet
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
8
Native area
Central Africa, Southeast Asia
Benefits
General BenefitsSweet basil is widely used in cooking for its distinctive flavor and aroma, and it is a common ingredient in Mediterranean, Asian, and other cuisines;
Basil contains compounds called eugenol and alpha-thujene, which have been found to have anti-inflammatory properties;
The compounds found in sweet basil, such as eugenol, have been shown to have potential for preventing certain diseases like cancer and diabetesl;
The strong aroma of the sweet basil can be used to create a relaxing environment and promote better sleep;
Sweet basil may help in aiding digestion by providing relief from bloating, gas, stomach cramps and nausea.
Medical PropertiesSweet basil contains compounds called eugenol and alpha-thujene, which have been found to have anti-inflammatory properties. These compounds may help to reduce inflammation throughout the body, which could be beneficial for conditions such as arthritis and asthma;
Sweet basil is a rich source of antioxidants, which help to neutralize harmful free radicals and protect cells from damage. These antioxidants may be beneficial in preventing certain types of cancer and other diseases;
Some studies have found that sweet basil has antibacterial properties and could be effective in fighting against certain types of bacteria, such as E.coli and Staphylococcus aureus;
Eugenol found in basil is thought to have analgesic properties, thus basil oil is found to be useful as a pain reliever, particularly for headaches and toothaches;
The compounds found in sweet basil, such as eugenol, have been shown to have potential for preventing certain diseases like cancer and diabetes.
Sweet basil should not be used as a replacement for professional medical treatment, and should not be used to self-diagnose or self-treat any medical condition. Consult with a medical professional before using sweet basil for medicinal purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesIt is known to remove volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from the air, specifically formaldehyde, xylene and toluene which are found in synthetic fragrances, cleaning and disinfecting products, and cigarettes.
Basil has been proven to effectively remove toxins from the air, making it a good choice for an indoor garden. In addition, it can also help to improve the overall quality of the air, by releasing oxygen during the daytime and absorbing carbon dioxide during the night, through the process of photosynthesis.
Other UsesSome gardeners use sweet basil as a natural pest repellent. When planted near other plants that are prone to insect damage, such as tomatoes, it can help to keep pests like aphids and whiteflies at bay;
Sweet basil can be used to preserve food. Its antibacterial properties make it a natural food preservative. It can be added to vinegar, oil, or salt to make a preservative mixture that can be used to preserve fruits, vegetables, and meats;
Sweet basil essential oil has been found to have a calming effect on the mind and body. Its scent can be used to help alleviate stress, anxiety, and depression;
weet basil can be made into a potpourri or a sachet and placed in wardrobes and drawers to give a fresh natural scent and remove bad odor;
Sweet basil can also be used in skin care and hair care applications. It is believed that basil oil can help remove wrinkles, dark circles, and acne, as well as strengthen and nourish hair.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiIn feng shui, sweet basil is believed to have a strong yang energy, which can help to balance and enhance the yin energy of a space. It is thought to be particularly beneficial in the kitchen, where it can be used to promote good health and nourishment.
It can also be used in the home office or workspace to help increase focus and productivity.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityARIES
In astrology, sweet basil is believed to be associated with the zodiac sign of Aries.
Aries is a fire sign, which is said to be well-aligned with the strong yang energy of sweet basil. It's believed that people born under this sign will find basil particularly beneficial in increasing focus and motivation.
Plant SymbolismIn many cultures, sweet basil is considered a symbol of love, faith and purification. It is also believed to have strong healing powers, and is often used in religious rituals and ceremonies. In some cultures, basil is considered a symbol of good luck, which is why it's common to see basil in the doorway of houses, temples and businesses.
In many cultures, it's believed that basil is a powerful plant with many meanings, it's important to keep in mind that some of these meanings may vary depending on the context, culture and traditions.
WaterSweet basil should be kept consistently moist, but not waterlogged. The soil should be allowed to dry out slightly between watering.
This can be achieved by watering when the top inch of soil is dry. In summertime when the temperature is high, it may need watering more frequently.
In general, sweet basil may need watering 2-3 times per week.
LightSweet basil prefers full sun conditions. It will grow well in a sunny windowsill or under grow lights.
It can also tolerate some shade, but will not be as productive.
TemperatureSweet basil thrives in warm temperatures between 60-85 degrees Fahrenheit, and can tolerate temperatures as high as 100 degrees Fahrenheit for short periods.
It is sensitive to frost and should be protected from temperatures below 40 degrees Fahrenheit. If you are growing sweet basil indoors, make sure to keep it away from cold drafts, as this can cause damage to the leaves.
PruningSweet basil should be regularly pruned to encourage bushier growth and to prevent the plant from becoming leggy. Prune back the top 2-3 inches of growth, leaving the bottom leaves intact. This will encourage the plant to grow bushier and produce more leaves. Prune the plant back just before it flowers, as it will encourage a new flush of leaves.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil for sweet basil is a well-draining, nutrient-rich soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0.
A good potting soil or a mixture of equal parts of peat moss, vermiculite, and perlite or coarse sand will work well. Basil plants prefer soils that are rich in organic matter, so you can mix in some compost or well-rotted manure to the soil before planting.
RepottingYou may need to repot sweet basil depending on the size of the pot and the growth rate of the plant. If the roots have filled the pot and there is no more room for them to grow, then it's time to repot the plant into a larger pot.
You can also check if the plant is getting rootbound by carefully removing it from the pot, and if the roots are tightly packed, then it's time to repot. Repotting sweet basil once or twice a season is usually enough.
Humidity & MistingIn terms of humidity, sweet basil prefers a moderate level of humidity, ideally around 50-70%.
If the air in your home is dry, you can increase the humidity around your sweet basil by placing a tray of water near the plant, misting the leaves with water, or using a humidifier.
Keep in mind that sweet basil does not tolerate high humidity levels, if the humidity is too high, basil can get moldy, and the leaves will be less fragrant.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Basil needs at least 6 hours of sunlight a day, so make sure to place it in a sunny spot near a window. Use a potting mix that is well-draining and rich in organic matter. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant when the top inch of soil is dry. Feed the basil with a balanced water-soluble fertilizer every 2-3 weeks.
Pinch off the tips of the basil to encourage bushier growth. Sweet basil likes warm temperatures, between 60-70°F, so keep it away from cold drafts and AC vents.Outdoor
Basil prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Wait until the last frost has passed before planting basil outdoors. Space basil plants about 18-24 inches apart. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant when the top inch of soil is dry. Feed the basil with a balanced water-soluble fertilizer every 2-3 weeks.
Pinch off the tips of the basil to encourage bushier growth. Keep an eye out for common pests and diseases such as aphids and powdery mildew and treat them promptly.Hardiness zone
9 - 11 USDA
Life cycleSweet basil seeds germinate in 7 to 14 days, when the temperature is between 60-85°F. They need good drainage and moisture.
After germination, the seedlings will emerge and will continue to grow, developing leaves and roots. As the plant grows taller and stronger, the leaves will become larger and more abundant. The plant may form branches and continue to grow. This stage usually lasts several weeks.
As the days get longer and the temperature increases, the basil plant will start to produce flowers. Once the flowers are pollinated, they will turn into small seed pods.
The seed pods will mature and turn brown, the plant will stop vegetative growth, and the leaves will start to yellow. This is the signal that the plant is reaching the end of its life cycle and is ready to be harvested.
After maturity, the plant will die, but the seed pods will dry out and release the seeds, allowing the next generation of basil plants to start growing.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring
By CUTTINGS:
Basil can be propagated from cuttings taken from an existing plant. Cuttings should be taken from the top of the plant and should include a few leaves and several inches of stem. The cutting should then be placed in a glass of water and left in a warm and sunny spot until the roots have developed, usually in about two weeks. Once the roots have grown, the cutting can be planted in a pot of soil.
By SEEDS:
Basil can also be propagated from seeds. The seeds should be sown in a pot of soil and lightly covered with soil. The pot should then be placed in a sunny spot and watered regularly. The seeds should germinate in about two weeks and the seedlings should be thinned once they have grown a few inches.
By DIVISION:
Basil can also be propagated by division. This method is best done in the spring or fall and involves dividing the roots of the existing plant into smaller sections. Each division should have a few leaves and some roots and should be planted in separate pots of soil. The divisions should then be watered regularly and placed in a warm, sunny spot.
PestsWhitefly, Thrips, Mealybug, Aphid, Slugs and snails, Caterpillar
DiseasesDowny mildew, Root Rot, Powdery mildew, Leaf spot
