Basil 'Sweet Thai' 3.5 Inch

Ocimum basilicum

This distinctive ornamental and culinary basil produces compact, attractive purple stems covered in two inch long, medium green leaves topped with dark, purple flowers that make excellent edible and cut flowers. Its foliage produces an intense, spicy basil flavor with hints of anise and clove. It is commonly used in Pho, Vietnamese soup, and other Southeast Asian dishes such as stir fries, curries, savory salads, and as a garnish for beverages and desserts. This annual herb is easy to grow indoors and out; requires frost protection. Remove edible flowers to increase plant productivity. Repels houseflies. Combine with tomatoes, basil, onions, and carrots; avoid cabbage. Plant in well-drained, moist, nutrient rich, warm soil in containers or gardens amended with organic matter like Petitti Planting Mix. Water well after planting; maintain 1-inch of water, once a week in the ground or keep evenly moist to slightly dry in containers. Feed with Garden-tone or Osmocote; follow label instructions throughout the growing season. Mulch 1-2" to suppress weeds and retain soil moisture. Harvest 1/3 of the new, tender foliage in the morning. Dry or freeze extra for future use. Remove flowers for better leaf production.

• Full Sun
• 16-20" h x 12-18" w
• Attracts Pollinators
• Pleasing Foliage