Common NameSweet BasilScientific NameOcimum BasilicumHabitRelated to mint, basil is an erect, branched annual or short-lived perennial, 1 - 2' tall, with bright green, oval leaves about 2" long, which can be purple-tinged. Whorls of tubular white to pinkish-purple flowers in spikes appear in the summer. Ocimum basilicum 'Genovese' is an annual native to India, Africa, and Asia. One of the most popular herbs, it is now cultivated in all temperate climates throughout the world. There are about 150 varieties of basil; Genovese basil is one of the best because it yields 7 to 8 cuttings and makes the best pesto.HardinessBasil hates cold and should be planted out only when night temperatures reach 50 to 55 degrees. It is hardy in zone 10 or higher.Soil & SiteRich, well-drained soil, fertile but not over-rich. Sun or part shade. Likes 70 - 85 degrees. Beware of scorching summer sun and drying winds. Cool, humid weather will cause mold. Evenly moist, not too soggy. Dislikes dryness.History & LoreSometime between classical and medieval times, basil gained a dubious reputation, as it was associated with the mythical basilisk - a reptile whose gaze caused instant death (no, J.K. Rowling did not invent it). This misunderstanding - its name actually derives from the Greek word for "royal" - went from bad to worse, and basil became the perpetrator of brain scorpions and worms.By the 17th century, basil's reputation was redeemed in the medicinal world. In Italy, basil is considered a sign of love. When a woman puts out a pot of basil, it means she is ready to receive her suitor. In France, it is called herbe royale. In India, it is sacred, dedicated to Vishnu and Krishna. In Victorian times, it was sent for best wishes in nosegays called tussie-mussies. And today, of course, it is the King of nouvelle cuisine and the essence of a summer garden.
"With Basil then I will begin Whose scent is wondrous pleasing."
-Drayton's Polyolbion.Suggested Uses
- Culinary
- The tomato's soul mate, basil offsets the acidity of any tomato-based food. It also goes will with peppers, zucchini, and beans, making it THE summer herb. Pesto sauce - made from pounded basil leaves, garlic, pine nuts, parmesan cheese and olive oil - on fresh angel hair pasta is indeed heavenly. Add fresh leaves to a summer salad; cover tomato slices with fresh mozzarella and olive oil, and sprinkle with chopped fresh basil for a classic Caprese dish; basil is also widely used in Thai and Vietnamese cooking.
- Beauty
- Dried basil leaves, especially the more pungent varieties are wonderful added to potpourri. Purple basils in flower add a beautiful accent and fragrance to a bouquet. The cosmetic industry uses basil in lotions, shampoos, perfumes, and soaps. An infused basil rinse will add shine to your hair. It is also an ingredient in the liqueur Chartreuse.
- Health
- Put a drop of basil oil on your sleeve and inhale for mental fatigue. Combine it with hyssop, bergamot or geranium oils for a stimulating massage oil for depression. Blend 6 to 8 oz of stimulating herbs (herbs such as thyme, sage, rosemary, mint, lemon verbena, lavender and/or marjoram) in a muslin bag to steep, for an invigorating herbal bath in cool water. Or, make a strong infusion of the herbs and add to the bath water
Fun FactsIf you practice companion planting, plant basil near tomatoes and peppers to enhance their growth. If you are bit or stung in the garden, crush a basil leaf and apply to the area.