Description
Ocimum basilicum | Sweet Basil ‘Dark Opal’
Sweet Basil (Ocimum basilicum), also commonly known as Great Basil, Mexican Basil was developed by John Scarchuk and Joseph Lent at the University of Connecticut in the 1950s.
is an herbaceous annual plant that’s cultivated worldwide for use as a culinary herb. Plants reach about 18 inches tall and produce beautiful pink flowers and large deep purple, almost black, sometimes mottled leaves that are highly aromatic with a warm, licorice clove-like scent and a mild, earthy flavor. The leaves may even be the darkest foliage variety of basil out there. Like other purple basils and purple plants, ‘Dark Opal’ has a high concentration of anthocyanins and is considered a potential source of red pigments for the food industry. It’s grown as much for its decorative appeal as it is for its culinary value, plus the plants look stunning mixed with vibrant colored plants.
Square stems produce terminal flower spikes that reach 8 inches tall in summer. The small, white flowers are attractive to insect pollinators, including honey bees, but are sometimes removed to increase the yield of the leaves.
The genus name, Ocimum, is derived from the Greek ‘okimon’ which means ‘to smell’, in reference to the strong odors of the foliage.
Sweet basil prefers full sun and moist, well-drained soils with little competition for sun or water. Will grow in partial shade, but with less’ vigor. Plants are highly frost sensitive and must be protected against temperatures that come close to freezing. To avoid ‘damping off’ disease, basil plants should not be over-watered. Pinch tops to encourage bushier growth.
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
1962 winner of the All-American Selection award.
Type: Annual
Sun exposure: Full sun
Mature height: 16-18 inches
Mature width: 8-12 inches
Hardiness zones: Annual- all. Perennial in zones 10+.
