Ocimum aka Basil

Taxonomy

Ocimum, a genus of aromatic annual and perennial herbs and shrubs in the family Lamiaceae, is native to the tropical and warm temperate regions of all 6 inhabited continents, with Africa having the highest number of species. The name Ocimum is derived from the Ancient Greek word for basil, ὤκιμον (ṓkimon). This genus includes well-known species such as the cooking herb great basil, known as O. basilicum, and the medicinal herb tulsi (holy basil), known as O. tenuiflorum. Ocimum is a short-lived perennial that reaches a height of about 75cm. It has dark green leaves, which turn purple when young, emitting a strong camphor scent. During summer, it produces spires of purple-pink flowers on purple stems. This particular variety of Ocimum is a sterile hybrid Basil, offering both ornamental and practical benefits. It is especially suitable for indoor cultivation on a sunny windowsill. The leaves and flowers of this plant can serve as delightful garnishes on your dinner plate, while the cut flowers can enhance the beauty of fresh bouquets.

Common names

Basil

How to care for Basil

Difficulty

Caring for Basil is a breeze, as it is highly adaptable and forgiving to minor neglect.

Lighting

Basil requires abundant, bright, and direct light to thrive. The best placement for this plant is within one foot of a window to ensure it receives enough light. If you live in an area with more extreme weather, such as hot summers or cold winters, you may need to adjust the placement of the plant accordingly. During hot summer months, it is important to place the plant away from full sun, as this can cause the leaves to yellow or burn. During cold winter months, it is best to move the plant closer to the window to take advantage of the extra light that can help it survive. By keeping an eye on the current weather in your area, you can make sure your Basil is always in the right place to thrive.

Dormancy

During the cold period, it is common for Basil to go dormant, resulting in a slowdown of growth. To accommodate this, waterings should be spaced out more.

Toxicity

There is no verified data on the toxicity of this plant in the records of Ploi. If any person, including yourself, a family member, or a pet, consume plant material with an uncertain toxicity level, it is advisable to seek the advice of a healthcare expert.


More info:
Wikipedia