Overview of basil. Basil, (Ocimum basilicum), also called sweet basil, annual herb of the mint family
Where is basil most commonly grown?
Basil is one of the most popular herbs grown in the world. It is native to Asia (India, Pakistan, Iran, Thailand and other countries) and can be found growing wild in
tropical and sub-tropical regions
of the world. Because of its popularity, basil is often referred to as the “king of the herbs”.
Where do you find wild basil?
This plant grows on the
outer edges of forests
, in hedgerows, in meadows, dry grassy places and in heaths.
Where does potted basil grow?
Find a Sunny Spot
Basil needs a
warm and sunny spot
to thrive. 1 Six to eight hours of direct sunlight is perfect, though if you live in a really hot climate, give your basil some afternoon shade. For basil to take off, the soil and air need to be fairly warm, so don’t rush putting out your plants in the spring.
What conditions grow basil?
Basil needs a spot with
full sun and a little afternoon shade in hot climates
but you can also grow basil in pots indoors, window sills are the perfect spot. As basil stems aren’t very strong it doesn’t fare well in windy conditions so it is best to keep it protected.
Which plant is also known as basil?
Basil, (
Ocimum basilicum
), also called sweet basil, annual herb of the mint family (Lamiaceae), grown for its aromatic leaves. Basil is likely native to India and is widely grown as a kitchen herb.
Does basil need full sun?
Basil thrives in
warm temperatures and full morning sun
. If you live in an area with scorching midday sun, try to give your basil light shade during the hottest time of day.
Is wild basil safe to eat?
The toothed leaves on a wild basil plant
are completely edible
and can be consumed raw and fresh from the plant, cooked into your favourite recipes, or dried as a spice.
Is basil a native plant?
Basil is
native to tropical regions from central Africa to Southeast Asia
. It is a tender plant, and is used in cuisines worldwide. There are many varieties of basil, as well as several related species or hybrids also called basil.
Can you eat wild purple basil?
Purple basil can be used in any recipe that calls
for sweet basil
, although the flavor is more intense than traditional sweet basil. Beyond making a gorgeous statement in your garden, purple basil is also a nutritional powerhouse with vitamins A, C, K, B6, iron, calcium, potassium, and tryptophan.
What can you not plant with basil?
- Herbs. While you can plant basil next to chamomile, oregano, and chives, basil generally prefers the company of vegetables over other herbs, and should not be planted near rue or sage. …
- Cucumbers. …
- Fennel.
Does basil like coffee grounds?
Yes,
coffee ground fertilizer is safe for basil and other herbs
. Again, just use it sparingly. Herbs definitely benefit from the nitrogen boost that coffee grounds provide.
When should I plant basil?
When to plant basil – The earliest time to plant basil is
about 2 weeks after the last frost
, once the soil is between 50° – 70° F – the warmer the better. It can also be planted during summer. Where to plant basil – Plant basil in a spot that gets plenty of sun. 6 – 8 hours a day is ideal.
Will basil grow all year?
Basil has a natural annual life cycle. It will flower and produce seeds, which can be harvested and dried for replanting. … You can then plant them indoors and
keep basil growing all year
, or save the seeds in an airtight container to plant outside next year.
Should I Fertilise basil?
Basil is a fast growing herb and when it’s young it tends to dry out quickly in hot weather so you’ll need to water regularly. To maintain healthy growth,
fertilise every two weeks with SeaMax Fish & Kelp
. Basil leaves can be picked as you need them from an early age.
Can you put basil on pizza?
Arrange basil leaves on top, drizzle with a little more olive oil and sprinkle garlic all over. Bake the pizzas until the crusts are crisp and brown on the bottom and the cheese is melted on top, about 15 minutes. Drizzle 1 teaspoon of oil over each pizza. Sprinkle with basil for garnish and salt.
