Sweet Basil
Ocimum basilicum Seeds per pack ~ 200
Germination: 75% Oct 2023 Packed for 2024
DAYS TO MATURITY: 85 days
The essence of summer, pesto lovers unanimously hail Genovese the sweetest of all basils and we agree! Easy to grow in gardens, raised beds and containers, the deep green leaves of Genovese abound on glossy 2′ plants. We find it hard to have too much basil in our lives!
PLANT DESCRIPTION: (Ocimum basilicum) The essence of summer, pesto lovers unanimously hail Genovese the sweetest of all basils and we agree! Easy to grow in gardens, raised beds, and containers, the deep green leaves of Genovese abound on glossy 2′ plants. We find it hard to have too much basil in our lives!
HISTORY: Native to India and Southeast Asia, basil is a member of the mint family, Lamiaceae. The term "basilicum" is derived from the Greek word "basileus," meaning king, highlighting the herb's royal and revered status. Basil's aromatic leaves have been cultivated and prized for their culinary and medicinal uses in various cultures. The herb gained prominence in ancient Greece and Rome, where it was associated with ceremonies, medicine, and culinary practices. Its introduction to Europe during the Middle Ages marked the beginning of its widespread use in Western cuisines.
NUTRITIONAL VALUE: Basil contains vitamin K, crucial for blood clotting and bone health, and vitamin A, known for its role in vision and immune function. It also provides small amounts of vitamins C and B6. Rich in minerals like iron, calcium, and magnesium, sweet basil contributes to various physiological functions, such as oxygen transport, bone strength, and muscle function. Additionally, basil contains antioxidants, including flavonoids and polyphenols, which may have potential health-promoting properties.
COMMON USE: Basil's fresh, aromatic leaves are a cornerstone of various global cuisines, adding a distinct and sweet flavor to dishes. It is a key ingredient in Italian pesto, Thai basil chicken, and caprese salads, among many others. Basil's compatibility with a range of ingredients makes it a popular choice for enhancing the taste of soups, sauces, and seafood dishes. Beyond its culinary applications, sweet basil has been utilized in traditional medicine for its potential medicinal properties. It is thought to have antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects. Basil tea, made from its leaves, is traditionally used to soothe digestive issues and promote relaxation.
GROWING TIPS: Annual. Sweet basil prefers nutrient-rich and well-drained soils. Before planting, amend the soil with compost and fertilizer and plant after the last frost. Plant the seeds 1/8 inch deep and thin to 3 to 4 inches apart after emergence. The plants germinate in 10-14 days.
