Holy Basil, also called wholy basil is a unique herb making it's way into American herb gardens. In cooking, holy basil is often added to stir-fry dishes and spicy soups because of its peppery taste. It is widely known across South Asia as Tulsi, a medicinal plant and an herbal tea. It is cultivated for religious and medicinal purposes, and for its essential oil. Almost ornamental in appearance, this plant is aromatic and extremely easy to care for. I believe the "strong shall survive" in my garden. You will appreciate my motto.
Family: Lamiaceae (lay-mee-AY-see-ee)
Genus: Ocimum (OSS-ih-mum)
Species: sanctum (SANK-tum)
Synonym:Ocimum tenuiflorum
Height:
24-36 in. (60-90 cm)
Spacing:
24-36 in. (60-90 cm)
Hardiness:
USDA Zone 10b: to 1.7 °C (35 °F)
USDA Zone 11: above 4.5 °C (40 °F)
Sun Exposure:
Full Sun
Danger:
none
Bloom Color:
Pink/purple
White/Near White
Bloom Time:
Blooms all year
Other details:
Average Water Needs; Water regularly; do not overwater
Soil pH requirements:
6.1 to 6.5 (mildly acidic)
6.6 to 7.5 (neutral)
Patent Information:
Non-patented
Propagation Methods:
From seed; sow indoors before last frost
Seed Collecting:
Collect seedhead/pod when flowers fade; allow to dry
