Ocimum minimum aka Bush Basil

Taxonomy

Ocimum minimum, also known as bush basil, is a species of plant in the Lamiaceae family. It is an attractive, compact, and annual plant with highly aromatic, bright green foliage that resembles cloves. In late summer, it produces spikes of small, tubular flowers in pink or white. This perennial plant has small leaves, less than 1cm long, that emit a strong scent. The leaves can be used for cooking and have a pleasant aroma. Additionally, the entire plant can be used to obtain essential oil, which is commonly used as a food flavoring and in perfumery and dental applications. It is also known for its insect repellent properties, making it a great plant to grow in the home or greenhouse to keep pests away from other plants.

Common names

Bush Basil, Greek Basil, Sweet Basil

How to care for Bush Basil

Difficulty

Bush Basil presents a moderate level of care, which allows plant enthusiasts with some experience to expand their skills and knowledge.

Lighting

Bush Basil thrives in bright and direct sunlight. To ensure your plant receives enough light to survive, place it less than one foot from a window. The current weather in your area may affect the placement in your home. For example, if you live in a region that has longer and more intense periods of sunlight, then you may want to place the plant farther away from the window to avoid direct sunlight and reduce the risk of sunburn. Alternatively, if you live in a region with relatively milder temperatures and less intense sunlight, then you may be able to place the plant closer to the window for increased exposure. Ultimately, the current weather in your area should be taken into consideration when determining the best placement for your Sweet Basil.

Toxicity

The toxicity level of this plant has not been officially confirmed by Ploi. If there is a possibility of ingestion of plant material with an uncertain toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is advisable to seek the assistance of a medical professional.


More info:
Wikipedia