Spicy flavor reminiscent of anise and cloves goes well in curries and many other Asian dishes. Purple stems and flowers contrast attractively with the 2 in. green leaves. 12-18 in. plants.
 
Pkt (0.18 g, 102 seeds)
 
Ocimum basilicum unless noted.

How to Grow: 
Annual. Germination: 5-14 days, 70-75°F. Harvest starts about 10 weeks after sowing. Basil is a pick-and-come-again herb which produces well when heavily picked. Grows best in well-drained rich soil. Sensitive to frost. Direct sow after all danger of frost, or start indoors 4 weeks before last frost. Lightly cover seed (no more than two times the depth of the seed).

Spacing: 
In flats space seeds ½” apart. Thin to 2” apart and transplant in 3-4 weeks. Direct sow 3-4 seeds every 12”. Thin to one plant when plants have 4 leaves.
 
Medicinal: Basil has been used as a carminative. Research indicates that it may inhibit gastric acid secretion. Holy basil has additional medicinal properties.