The Beginner's Herb Garden: An Herb Society of America Guide
BASIL, SWEET - Ocimum basilicum
Description: Annual; height 1-2'. The well-known sweet basil is a
bushy plant with green leaves, white flowers.
Culture: Well-drained, medium-rich soil in full sun.
Propagation: Seed, cuttings.
Notes: There are many wonderful varieties of basil available.
Those in the "red" group make excellent herbal vinegars. Try 'Red
Rubin,' 'Dark Opal,' or 'Purple Ruffles.' They
also add striking foliage color to the garden.
Description: Hardy perennial; height 10-15". Erect plant with fine
green onion-like leaves. Pompoms of lavender flower heads.
Culture: Well-drained, medium-rich soil in full sun.
Propagation: Seed, but slow germination. Divided clumps increase rapidly. Should be divided every
2 or 3 years.
Notes: The flower head is edible as well as the leaves and make an
attractive addition to herb vinegars and fresh salads. |

basil
Ocimum basilicum

chives
Allium schoenoprasum
|
|
|
Next herb: DILL - Anethum
graveolens
Previous Page | Next
Page
Back to Herbs in Common Use Index
Back to Contents
|