Wild Basil Clinopodium vulgare
ABOUT
Clinopodium vulgare, commonly known as wild basil, is a perennial herb that features an array of characteristics which contribute to its unique appearance. It displays a robust and hairy stem, which supports an array of leaves and flowers. The leaves are typically oval or heart-shaped, possessing a slightly wrinkled texture with an aromatic quality, reminiscent of the basil many are familiar with. The plant bears small, tubular flowers that cluster together in a showy display, ranging in color from soft lavender to pink. These flowers form compact, rounded heads at the top of the stems and are a common sight in the summer months when the plant is in full bloom. The petals are delicate and create an attractive contrast against the green foliage. Below this verdant and floral display, the wild basil's root system is comprised of a network of thin, fibrous roots which anchor it to the ground and absorb nutrients and moisture from the soil. Wrapping the overall appearance of the wild basil is a certain exuberance and hardiness, allowing it to thrive in various conditions, while also contributing to the ecosystems in which it grows as a source of nectar for bees and other insects.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Lamiaceae.
Synonyms
Wild Basil, Clinopodium Vulgare, Woodland Calamint.
Common names
Acinos vulgaris, Calamintha acinos, Calamintha clinopodium, Calamintha vulgaris, Clinopodium acinos, Clinopodium arundanum, Clinopodium calamintha, Melissa calamintha, Melissa clinopodium, Satureja acinos, Satureja calamintha, Satureja vulgaris, Thymus acinos, Thymus calamintha.
ToxicityTo humans
Wild basil (Clinopodium vulgare) is not known to be toxic to humans. In fact, it is sometimes used in culinary applications and traditional medicine. There are no commonly reported symptoms of poisoning from the ingestion of wild basil, as it is generally considered safe for human consumption when used appropriately. However, it is essential to identify the plant correctly and use it in moderation, as with any herb.
To pets
Wild basil (Clinopodium vulgare) is not commonly listed as a toxic plant to pets. There is limited information on its effects on domestic animals, but it is not typically associated with poisoning when pets come into contact with or ingest it. If a pet were to ingest large quantities, there might be a risk of gastrointestinal upset simply due to the ingestion of a non-typical food item, but specific toxic symptoms from wild basil are not well-documented. Nonetheless, it is always prudent to monitor your pet's reaction to any new plant and consult a veterinarian if any concerning symptoms arise.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Purple
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
4-8
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Aromatic Properties: Wild basil emits a pleasant fragrance which can be used to freshen up a room or as an ingredient in perfumes and aromatherapy products.
- Culinary Uses: The leaves of wild basil are occasionally used as a flavoring herb in cooking, similar to other basil varieties.
- Garden Aesthetics: With its attractive foliage and whorls of lavender flowers, wild basil can enhance the visual appeal of gardens and natural landscapes.
- Pollinator Attraction: Wild basil flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators which are vital for the ecosystem and help in the pollination of nearby plants.
- Natural Repellant: The strong scent of wild basil may deter certain insects and pests, making it a natural option for pest control in gardens.
- Crafts and Decorations: The flowers and foliage of wild basil can be used in floral arrangements and other decorative crafts.
- Soil Improvement: As a wild perennial, wild basil can contribute to soil health by preventing erosion and gradually improving soil fertility over time.
- Companion Planting: Wild basil can be used in companion planting to potentially enhance the growth and flavor of certain vegetables and herbs.
- Educational Use: As a native plant in some regions, wild basil can serve as an educational tool for studying local flora and biodiversity.
- Cultural Significance: In some cultures, wild basil has historical and traditional importance, being used in rituals or as a symbol in folklore and stories.
Medical Properties- Antioxidant activity: Clinical studies have indicated that wild basil has significant antioxidant properties, which can help in protecting the body against oxidative stress.
- Antimicrobial effect: Extracts from the plant have shown antibacterial and antifungal activities, potentially useful in treating infections.
- Anti-inflammatory properties: Traditional use suggests wild basil may have an anti-inflammatory effect, beneficial in alleviating conditions such as arthritis.
- Gastrointestinal benefits: It has been traditionally used to aid digestion and treat gastrointestinal issues like gas and bloating.
- Respiratory aid: Wild basil has been used in herbal medicine to help with respiratory conditions such as coughs and sore throats.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Clinopodium vulgare, commonly known as wild basil, can be used as a flavoring in cooking, similar to its culinary relatives, although its flavor is typically more robust and wilder.
- This plant's aromatic leaves can be infused in oils or vinegars to create uniquely flavored dressings and marinades.
- The crushed leaves of wild basil have been used as a natural insect repellent, helping to ward off mosquitoes and other biting insects.
- Wild basil is sometimes used in the creation of natural perfumes or potpourris due to its strong and pleasant scent.
- Dried and hung in bunches, wild basil can work as a natural air freshener, giving off its aroma subtly over time.
- Throughout history, wild basil has been used as a strewing herb, scattered on floors to release its scent when trodden upon.
- It can be utilized in handcrafted soaps for its fragrance and potential skin-beneficial properties, though not medically related.
- The plant has been incorporated in traditional dye-making processes for its ability to impart color to wool and other fabrics.
- Gardeners sometimes plant wild basil as a companion plant to attract pollinators like bees and butterflies to their gardens.
- Wild basil leaves can be added to compost piles as a "green" ingredient, providing nitrogen and other nutrients as they decompose.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Wild Basil is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Wild Basil is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Healing and Medicine: Clinopodium vulgare, commonly known as Wild Basil, is frequently associated with healing due to its historical use in herbal medicine for treating various ailments.
- Protection: It was sometimes believed to provide protection when carried or used in spells and charms, likely due to its strong aroma which was thought to repel insects and possibly evil spirits.
- Love: As a member of the mint family, Wild Basil can be symbolic of love, although this association is more commonly connected with sweet basil (Ocimum basilicum).
WaterWild basil, also known as Clinopodium vulgare, prefers soil that is consistently moist but well-drained. During the growing season, it's best to water wild basil deeply once or twice a week depending on the climate and soil conditions, ensuring you're providing enough moisture without causing waterlogged soil. To maintain even soil moisture, water with approximately 1 gallon per square foot every week during dry periods. Decrease the amount of water in cooler months when the plant is not actively growing. Always check the top inch of soil for dryness before watering again.
LightWild basil thrives in full sun to partial shade. It performs best when it receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. If placed in an outdoor garden, choose a spot where it will receive ample morning light with some afternoon shade to protect it from the intense late-day sun. However, it also tolerates slight shade quite well, as long as the lighting is still bright.
TemperatureWild basil is tolerant of a wide range of temperatures, but it prefers to grow in conditions between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. It can withstand minimum temperatures down to about 30 degrees Fahrenheit, and maximum temperatures as high as 90 degrees Fahrenheit. For optimal growth, avoid placing wild basil in areas where temperatures fall below freezing or soar above the comfortable room temperature range.
PruningPrune wild basil to promote bushier growth and to prevent it from becoming leggy. Snip off the tips of the stems, especially after flowering, to encourage more side shoots. Pruning is best done in the spring or early summer, coinciding with the start of the growing season. It may also be pruned lightly throughout the growing season as needed to maintain its desired shape.
CleaningAs needed
SoilWild Basil thrives in well-draining soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5. The best soil mix is a blend of loam, compost, and sand in equal parts to ensure good drainage and fertility. Regular garden soil can be improved with organic matter to suit the plant's needs.
RepottingWild Basil should be repotted every two to three years to replenish the soil's nutrients and to accommodate root growth. It is best to repot in spring before the onset of the growing season.
Humidity & MistingWild Basil prefers moderate humidity levels but is quite adaptable. The plant does well in average room humidity, so special humidity adjustments are generally not necessary for its health.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright light and well-draining soil.
Outdoor
Plant in sun to partial shade in fertile soil.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
Life cycleWild basil (Clinopodium vulgare) begins its life as a seed, which upon finding suitable conditions, germinates and develops into a seedling. As the seedling matures, it grows into a herbaceous plant, characterized by square stems and opposite leaves, known for its aromatic foliage. The plant reaches the vegetative stage where it grows all its structural parts including stems, leaves, and roots. Following vegetative growth, wild basil enters the reproductive stage where it produces small, tubular flowers typically arranged in a whorled inflorescence, which are pollinated by insects. Upon successful pollination, the flowers develop into small nutlets, which are the plant's fruit containing seeds. The life cycle can start anew when these seeds are dispersed, either by wind, animals, or human activities, completing the life cycle and allowing for the growth of new wild basil plants.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Summer
Propogation: The most popular method for propagating Wild Basil, which is the common name for Clinopodium vulgare, is through seed sowing. Seeds can be started indoors in flats approximately 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost date to get a head start on the growing season. The seeds should be sown on the surface of a well-drained starting mix, as they require light for germination. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged and at a temperature around 65 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit (18 to 21 degrees Celsius). Once the seedlings have grown strong enough and the threat of frost has passed, they can be transplanted outdoors to a sunny or partly shaded area with well-draining soil. Wild Basil can also be propagated by dividing established plants in the spring or autumn.
