David J. Stang via Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
herb
Basil
Ocimum basilicum
EdibleMedicinal
Edible Partsleaves, flowers
Overview
An aromatic culinary herb prized for its sweet, slightly peppery flavor and essential role in Italian, Thai, and Vietnamese cuisines. Basil thrives in warmth and is one of the most rewarding herbs for home growers — a few plants will supply a household through summer. Pinching flower buds keeps leaves tender and extends harvest.
Growing Conditions
LightFull Sun
MoistureModerate
Hardiness Zones2 — 11
Height0.5m
Spread0.3m
Growth HabitBushy annual
LifespanAnnual
Bloom ColorWhite to pale purple
Pollinator Valuehigh
Companion Planting & Soil
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Soil pH6 — 7
Soil TypeRich, well-drained loam with consistent moisture
Planting Calendar
When to sow, transplant, and harvest by growing zone.
| Zone | Action | Months | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cold (1-2) | Start Indoors | Apr — May | Start indoors 6 weeks before last frost; needs warmth (70°F+) to germinate |
| Cold (1-2) | Transplant | Jun — Jun | Transplant after all frost risk; soil must be 60°F+ |
| Cold (1-2) | Harvest | Jul — Sep | Pinch tops above leaf node to encourage branching |
| Cool (3-4) | Start Indoors | Mar — Apr | Start seeds indoors under lights |
| Cool (3-4) | Transplant | May — Jun | Transplant when nights stay above 50°F |
| Cool (3-4) | Harvest | Jun — Sep | Harvest frequently; never strip more than 1/3 of plant |
| Moderate (5-7) | Direct Sow | May — Jun | Direct sow once soil is warm; pinch flowers to extend harvest |
| Moderate (5-7) | Harvest | Jun — Oct | Pick leaves regularly; pinch flower buds to keep leaves tender |
| Warm (8-9) | Direct Sow | Mar — May | Sow in spring; succession plant every 3-4 weeks |
| Warm (8-9) | Harvest | May — Nov | Continuous harvest through warm months |
| Hot (10+) | Direct Sow | Feb — Apr | Sow in late winter; may need shade cloth in peak summer |
| Hot (10+) | Harvest | Apr — Nov | Year-round in mild winters; protect from frost |
Uses
Culinary
- Fresh in pesto, caprese salad, and pasta sauces
- Infused into oils and vinegars
- Layered fresh in sandwiches and on pizza
Medicinal
- Traditionally used for digestive support
- Mild anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties
Other Uses
- Repels mosquitoes and flies when grown near patios
- Companion plant to tomatoes — said to improve flavor and deter pests
