BASIL Seeds, Sweet

Sweet Basil (Ocimum basilicum) is the classic heirloom, open-pollinated annual culinary herb, valued for its fresh green leaves and warm, aromatic flavor. A kitchen-garden staple, it is the foundation of countless Italian and Mediterranean dishes.

At a glance

• Botanical name: Ocimum basilicum
• Type: Heirloom, open-pollinated annual herb
• Mature height: 12 to 24 inches
• Sun: Full sun (6 to 8 hours)
• Soil: Well-drained, organic-rich, pH 6.0 to 7.0

Best for

• Pesto and pasta sauces
• Salads and Caprese
• Pizza and tomato dishes
• Containers and windowsill herb gardens

How to grow

Sow after the last frost in full sun and well-drained soil, or start indoors and transplant once nights are warm. Keep the soil evenly moist. Pinch the tips and remove flower buds to keep plants productive and the leaves tender.

Flavor profile

Sweet, fresh, and aromatic with subtle peppery and clove notes. Best used fresh or stirred in at the end of cooking.

About 99Heirlooms

99Heirlooms is a seed company devoted to heirloom and open-pollinated varieties, giving home gardeners dependable seeds with the character and heritage of generations past.