Ocimum basilicum - L.
Plant Details
General Information
Plant Properties
Growth conditions
Moist
Sand (light) Loam (medium)
Acid Neutral Basic
Sun
Usage properties
Leaves, Seed
Repellent, Ethereal oil
Description
Leaves and flowers - raw or cooked. They are used as a seasoning or as spinach, especially in tomato dishes, pasta sauces, beans, bell peppers, and eggplants. The leaves are usually used fresh but can also be dried for use in winter. They are a very fine addition to salads due to their delightful clove aroma. Use the leaves sparingly in the kitchen, as heat concentrates the flavor. A refreshing tea can be made from the leaves. The seeds can be eaten on their own or added to bread dough as a seasoning. When soaked in water, they become slimy and can be turned into a refreshing drink called 'sherbet tokhum' in the Mediterranean region. An essential oil obtained from the plant is used as a flavoring in mustard, sauces, vinegars, etc.
Harvest Data
Guilds
Guild Information
Click on a plant in the diagram for more information.
Guild Details
| Guild | Description |
|---|---|
|
Coriandrum sativum Koriander |
Basil and cilantro enhance each other's flavor when planted together. |
|
Rosmarinus officinalis Rosemary |
Marigolds repel pests while basil attracts beneficial insects. |
|
Allium sativum Garlic |
Garlic deters aphids and enhances the growth of basil. |
|
Prunus spinosa Blackthorn |
Lettuce provides shade and helps retain moisture for basil. |
|
Ceratophyllum Demersum Canadian Pondweed |
French marigold attracts pollinators and repels nematodes. |
|
Rosa canina Dog Rose |
Dog rose can improve soil health and attracts beneficial insects. |