Sweet Basil
Ocimum basilicum
Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
18 inches
Width
18 inches
Light
Full Sun
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Prefers moderate humidity
Lifespan
Annual
Native To
India and Southeast Asia
Toxicity
Non-toxic
The Story
Plant Bio
Ocimum basilicum, commonly known as sweet basil, is an aromatic annual herb with soft, green, ovate leaves and clusters of small, fragrant white to purple flowers that attract pollinators. This species is prized for its intense aromatic flavor, making it a popular choice for culinary use, especially in Mediterranean dishes and fresh herb preparations.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into moist soil in spring.
- Keep soil evenly moist during germination.
- Transplant seedlings when they have 2-3 sets of true leaves.
- Ensure full sun for optimal growth.
- Water regularly but avoid waterlogging.
- Harvest leaves once plants are established.
Pro Tip
Use rich, well-draining soil and provide ample sunlight for lush growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water deeply once a week during dry periods 🌱
- Pinch back to encourage bushier growth
- Use organic compost annually
Don't
- Overwater to prevent root rot ❌
- Allow soil to dry out completely between watering ❌
- Neglect pruning which promotes leggy growth ❌
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Harvest | ||||||||||||
| Pinch | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Propagate |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Sweet Basil questions
What zones can Sweet Basil grow in?
Sweet Basil is hardy in USDA Zone 10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Sweet Basil deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Sweet Basil, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Sweet Basil bloom?
Sweet Basil typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Sweet Basil need full sun?
Sweet Basil does best in full sun (6+ hours).
More Ocimum to compare
Sweet Basil
Ocimum basilicum 'Sweet Basil'
Wild Magic Basil
Ocimum basilicum 'Wild Magic'
Thai Basil
Ocimum basilicum 'Thai Siam Queen'
Emerald Towers Basil
Ocimum basilicum 'Emerald Towers'
Pesto Perpetuo Basil
Ocimum basilicum 'Pesto Perpetuo'
African Blue Basil
Ocimum basilicum 'African Blue'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Collections featuring this plant
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Sweet Basil with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
