Organic Purple Basil - Ferme de Sainte Marthe seeds

Purple Basil is a 30 cm (12in) tall herbaceous condiment plant. It is a variety with purple leaves and a compact habit, ideal for pots. It is cultivated for its oval leaves with a penetrating fragrance that can be consumed raw. Sowing period is from March to April for a harvest 3 months later.

Originating from tropical regions of Asia and Africa, basil forms a plant that reaches, depending on the varieties, between 30 and 50 cm (12 and 20in) in height. It has upright, branching stems with a square section like most Lamiaceae. It is an aromatic plant whose leaves, fresh or dried, are widely used in salads, marinades, or in pesto to accompany pasta, meat, or fish.

The use of basil in the Mediterranean basin dates back to Antiquity. In Roman times, this plant was the emblem of lovers, while in Greek culture, it symbolised hatred and misfortune! Basil is a condiment plant used to flavor and enhance dishes. Rich in essential oil, basil has soothing, anti-inflammatory, and stimulating properties.

Basil will require a supply of well-decomposed compost (3 kg/m²) in late autumn or early spring.

Harvest: Between July and October, basil is harvested as needed and as it develops.

Storage: Basil can be stored for a few days in a cool place in a glass filled with water. It can be dried in the shade and stored in an airtight jar, but unfortunately, it loses some of its fragrance.

Gardener's tip: Regular weeding and hoeing should be done. Pinch the flowering stems to encourage new shoots to develop. The smell of its leaves repels mosquitoes.