Description
Ocimum selloi | Green Pepper Basil
Green Pepper Basil, also known as Bell Pepper Basil, St. Michaels Herb, and San mikel wamal, was first collected near Chiapas, Mexico in the 1990s by botanist Dennis E. Breedlove of the California Academy of Sciences. It’s rare and unique annual or perennial herb that’s becoming increasingly popular in the United States and is unique for several reasons: it prefers part shade which is where it grows and looks best, it has a distinctive flavor that, just as its name implies– is a surprising combination of green pepper and basil, it self-seeds throughout the growing season, and is fairly root-hardy (usually going dormant during the cold season). In protected areas, it can even maintain some leaves during winter. Its deep-green serrated leaves are glossy, deep forest green, leathery, and considerably longer than those of other basils, making it look more closely like a pepper plant, and it has a milder, more complex flavor than most of its cousins. Produces numerous small violet flowers on arching spikes. Unlike most other commonly encountered Basils, flowering does not adversely affect the leaf production. Ocimum selloi begins blooming and producing seed when relatively small. Pinch back blooms to encourage bushier growth with more leaves. Prefers loamy soil and a little less water than other Basils. If grown in full sun without some shade, the leaves may be tough and inedible. It is said to be able to hold its complex flavors through cooking, freezing and microwaving.
Plants reaches 18-24 inches tall.
The genus name, Ocimum, is derived from the Greek ‘okimon’ which means ‘to smell’, in reference to the strong odors of the foliage.
Sow seeds indoors 6 weeks before your last frost, using heat, humidity, and light. Transplant plants outside only after your last frost and night temps have reached an average of 45 degrees.
Type: Annual or perennial
Sun exposure: Part sun part shade
Mature height: 18-24 inches
Mature width: 12-16 inches
Hardiness zones: Annual in all zones. Perennial in zones 9-12.
