Basil
Description
- Basil (Ocimum basilicum) is a fragrant herb prized for its culinary uses and aromatic foliage. It features bright green leaves and delicate flowers, varying in color from white to purple depending on the variety.
Features & Benefits
- Features aromatic, bright green leaves with a sweet, spicy flavor profile.
- Grows as an annual herbaceous plant, typically reaching about 1 to 2 feet in height.
- Benefits from pinching off flower buds to promote continuous leaf growth.
- Used extensively in culinary dishes, particularly in Italian cuisine, for its fresh and distinctive flavor.
- Comes in various cultivars, including Genovese, Thai, and Purple, each with its unique taste and aroma.
- Has medicinal properties and is believed to have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial effects.
- Adds ornamental value to gardens, containers, or windowsills with its lush foliage and delicate flowers.
Care Guide
- Light: Requires full sun for at least 6 hours daily.
- Watering: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry.
- Soil: Well-draining, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5.Humidity: Prefers moderate humidity but can tolerate drier conditions.
- Fertilization: Feed with balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
- Pruning: Regular pruning promotes bushy growth and prevents flowering.