Basil
Ocimum basilicum • Lamiaceae
🌱 Seed Category
Herb
🌍 Origin Region
Central Africa to Southeast Asia; widely adapted to warm temperate and tropical climates.
📅 Days to Maturity
60-90 days to full maturity; first leaves can be harvested at 30-45 days. High potential for succession planting.
🌡️ Hardiness Zones
USDA Zones 2-11 (grown as an annual); perennial in zones 10-11. Extremely frost-sensitive.
About This Seed
The seeds are tiny, oval, and matte black with a smooth texture; when wet, they develop a gelatinous coating. The plant grows as a bushy herbaceous annual with fragrant, oval, glossy green leaves and small white flowers on terminal spikes.
Growing Information
Growing Season
Spring and Summer; start indoors 6-8 weeks before last frost or direct sow after all frost danger has passed.
Germination
Germinates in 5-10 days at 70-85°F (21-29°C). Light is required for germination; do not cover seeds deeply. No pre-treatment needed.
Planting Instructions
Plant 1/4 inch deep, spaced 10-12 inches apart in rows 18 inches apart. Prefers rich, well-draining soil with a pH of 6.0-7.5.
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full sun (6-8 hours daily). Requires consistent moisture; water at the base to avoid leaf disease. Moderate drought tolerance once established.
Companion Plants
Beneficial near tomatoes (improves flavor), peppers, and asparagus. Avoid planting near rue or sage.
Special Characteristics
Contains high levels of essential oils; attracts bees and butterflies; known for culinary and medicinal uses; naturally repellent to flies and mosquitoes.