Cinnamon Basil

Cinnamon Basil (Ocimum basilicum) is a unique, aromatic herb known for its distinctive cinnamon-like flavor and fragrance. It features dark green leaves with purple stems and veins and produces pretty pinkish-purple flowers. Its spicy-sweet note shines in teas, desserts, salads, and Asian dishes, and it attracts beneficial insects to the garden.

At a glance

• Botanical name: Ocimum basilicum
• Type: Heirloom, non-GMO culinary basil
• Foliage: Dark green leaves, purple stems and veins
• Flowers: Pinkish-purple
• Scent: Cinnamon, spicy-sweet
• Sun: Full sun

Best for

• Teas and desserts
• Salads
• Asian dishes
• Pollinator and herb gardens
• Container growing

How to grow

Sow in full sun after the last frost in warm, well-draining soil. Keep evenly moist and pinch back regularly to encourage bushy growth. Harvest leaves often, and let some flowers form for pollinators and beneficial insects.

Flavor profile

Spicy-sweet with a warm cinnamon note layered over classic basil.

About MIgardener

MIgardener is a Michigan-based family seed company offering affordable heirloom and non-GMO seeds, with a mission to make home gardening accessible to everyone.