Description
Ocimum basilicum var. citriodora | Sweet Lemon Basil ‘Mrs. Burns’
‘Mrs. Burns’ Sweet Lemon Basil (Ocimum basilicum), is a delightful heirloom Basil grown since the 1920’s in New Mexico for its scrumptious taste and outstanding fragrance. It’s is an herbaceous annual that reaches about 18 inches tall and produces larger leaves than any other Lemon Basil variety. They are incredibly aromatic, with a bright lemon-basil perfume. 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. Although Mr’s Burns is often considered to be a Lemon Basil (O. citriodorum), it is a variety of sweet basil.
Sweet Lemon basil prefers full sun and moist, well-drained soils with little competition for sun or water. Tolerates heat and dryness well and has a robust and carefree nature in the garden. 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. Readily self-seeds.
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
The larger leaves and stronger flavor make this the preferred lemon basil variety for chefs. It goes well in rice dishes, poultry, fish, potatoes and vegetables, in dressings and marinades, or enjoy it in a refreshing iced tea.
Type: Annual
Sun exposure: Full sun
Mature height: 1.5- 3 ft
Mature width: 18-24 inches
Hardiness zones: Annual- all. Perennial in zones 10+.
