Basil
Ocimum basilicum · Family Lamiaceae
Also known as: sweet basil, herb
- Light
- Full sun
- Watering
- Every 2 days
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Pet-safe
- Yes
Care
Where to put it
Kitchen window with morning sun.
Light
At least 4 hours of direct sun.
Watering
Likes moist soil. Water in the morning, keeping the leaves dry.
About the plant
An essential kitchen herb, the base of pesto and the perfect partner for tomatoes. It grows fast in the sun and gets bushier when you pick the tips often. Removing the flowers helps keep the leaves tender and tasty.
Origin
Native to the tropical regions of Asia and Africa, especially India.
What it likes
- Full sun for at least 6 hours
- Moist but not soggy compost
- Frequent picking of the tips
What it dislikes
- Cold below 10 °C
- Low light
- Being left to flower unpruned
Did you know?
The name comes from the Greek basilikon, meaning 'royal', a nod to the noble status the herb once had.
