Herbs
Basil - Purple
Ocimum basilicum purpurascens
Packing all the flavour of the original basil plant, this purple-leaved variety adds decorative contrast to a herb garden. Can be used to add intense flavour to a wide variety of dishes, as well as a companion to tomatoes. Will go on to produce cream flowers if not pinched out regularly. Best grown in pots.
- Position
- Full Sun
- Height
- 75cm
- Spread
- 30cm
Growing calendar
Sowing & growing
Can be sown and grown in heated greenhouse all year, but best sown in trays or in-situ April-May, at temperatures 15-20°C for summer harvest. If sown under cover, transplant when seedlings are large enough to handle, and harden off before planting out 30cm apart. If sowing outside, sow in shallow drills, and gradually thin out weaker seedlings.
Aftercare
Pinch out regularly to encourage fresh growth and discourage flowers. In autumn, either compost plants or move inside for further autumn harvests.
Gallery
Ref. SEB002