Basil List
There are over 100 different varieties of Basils and I’m sure there are more! I have searched and searched for one location to find pictures and brief descriptions, but I have never found one source listing them all. I decided to make my own list. I will be adding them as fast as I can and if I am missing any, please send me a comment and I’ll be sure to add it.
African Blue Lemon Basil
African blue lemon basil also known as “African Blue” is one of the lesser know varieties of basil. This basil plant blooms in the summertime and sports beautiful little pink flowers making it a nice addition to your garden until it is time to harvest it. It can be added to any number of dishes and goes well with parsley, chives and dill.
Albahaca Abundante Basil
Albahaca Abundante Basil is commonly called “Abundate basil” this variety of basil is considered a rare species. It is a hardy species and can be grown any time of the year. This basil has pretty light purple flowers when in bloom, it is ready for harvesting after 80 days. It compliments many dishes but should only be used with other basils.
Anise Basil
Anise basil flowers have a wonderful aroma that will fill you home or garden with a delightful smell. When added to food this basil will liven up any dish you serve with a touch of sweetness.
Ararat Basil
Ararat basil is also called “Ararat sweet basil” this basil has a slight licorice flavor to it. It goes great in salads and pasta sauces. Like many basil plants it has the similar purple flowers and a sweet smell.
Aroma 1 Basil
Aroma 1 basil is hybrid basil, still referred to “Aroma basil” it is much more flavorful and scented than the original Aroma basil which is now very hard to find. Aroma 1 basil is used in all kinds of pasta dishes and adds just enough sweetness to please your taste buds.
Aroma 2 Basil
Aroma 2 basil is hybrid basil similar to the Aroma 1 basil. Aroma 2 has even more flavor and scent than Aroma 1 and eventually will replace the Aroma 1 version. To date the Aroma 2 basil is what would be classified as the “New and Improved” aroma basil.
Aromatto Basil
Aromatto basil is a beautiful plant and will enhance any garden. The plant is 95% purple in color and only 5% green. The shades of purple vary at each stage of the plants development. It has a spicy flavor when harvested and added to food. It goes great in Mexican dishes and chili.
Aussie Sweet Basil
Aussie Sweet basil is hybrid basil that has a super sweet taste and smell. This basil was developed in Austin, Texas which is where its name originates from. It is also know as the “Lesbos or Greek Column” basil.
Basilico Basil
Basilico basil is a relatively new basil it has a sweet taste and the leaves can be used in salads and when bottling vinegar. This basil is also a delight in any pasta sauce. It is also known as “Basilico Finissimo Verde basil”.
Bergamont Basil
Bergamont basil is also known as “Wild Bergamont” basil. This basil produces sweet smelling light purple flowers and can be found growing the wild in all of the United States. It is excellent for all culinary dishes, beverages and also has medicinal proprieties as well.
Blue Spice Basil
Blue Spice basil is a spicy basil as the name implies, with a hint of vanilla flavor and scent. It is very popular in beverages and baked goods. Although it is the perfect basil for almost any dish.
Boxwood Basil
Boxwood basil is used mainly as an ingredient in pasta dishes. The little green plants make a nice addition to your garden and the basil can also be planted in a pot however they grow quickly and may over run your patio, so you should consider planting them in the ground.
Bush Basil
Bush basil is favorite basil for French dishes. It is very popular and a favorite in France the chefs include it almost any dish that requires basil. It is also popular in many other cuisines around the world.
Bush Spicy Basil
Bush Spicy basil is similar to regular Bush basil with one exception it is one of the spiciest basils available. This type of basil is used in Italian dishes. If you don’t like really spicy foods then skip this spicy basil.
Caesar Basil
Caesar basil is another favorite of the Italian chefs and makes a great addition to green salads. The leaves have a pleasant aroma to them and the basil adds a nice Italian flavor to sauces and pesto.
Camphor Basil
Camphor basil grows to be about 5 feet tall! It is used in pasta sauces and salads. You can even make a wonderful tasting salad dressing using Camphor basil. It is also called “Karpoor Basil”.
Cardinal Basil
Cardinal basil is a beautiful plant with its stunning red flowers it will stand out in any garden! It is also a very flavorful basil and can replace almost any other type of basil a recipe calls for.
Christmas Basil
Christmas basil is fairly new to the basil family. It is often used in wedding bouquets during the holiday season. It is also used in dishes the require a sweet/fruity basil. It smells heavenly and looks just as lovely!
Chocolate Basil
If anyone has any information on the Mysterious Chocolate Basil, I sure would appreciate locating either seeds or a plant.
Cinnamon Basil
Cinnamon basil is an attractive plant it is one of the most common used basils by bakers. It has a cinnamon flavor and scent. It will fill the air with the sweet scent of cinnamon and your baked goods and other dishes will have a nice sweet savory taste when using this basil.
Clove Basil
Clove basil has a lovely scent and pretty white flowers that add a touch of delicacy to any garden. Clove basil is also a delicious addition to any green salad or it can be substituted in any culinary dish as the basil of choice.
Compact Basil
Compact basil has large thick leaves despite its name that indicates it is a small compact basil plant. It is a spicy basil and used most often in pasta dishes and pizza sauces. Compact basil is very popular among gourmet chefs and can is often sold in gourmet food shops.
Cuban Basil
Cuban basil is a small leaved basil plant, with a spicy flavor and a sweet smell. The taste is similar to that of Sweet basil with a little kick! It is also a bit of an expensive basil and has a short lifespan before harvested.
Dark Opal Basil
Dark Opal basil is a popular sweet basil. It has beautiful eye catching purple leaves that get darker as the basil plant matures with tiny little pink flowers. Aside from being a colorful garden plant the basil is perfect for any Italian dish.
Dolce Vita Blend Basil
Dolce Vita basil is a blend of six basils it can be used in any dish from Italian to seafood. You can also make homemade salad dressing with this basil it will be pretty pink color!
Dwarf Greek Basil
Dwarf Greek basil is well liked by chefs. It is used in salads, soups, all meat dishes, especially poultry. It has a nice scent and savory taste. It also serves as a garnish.
East Indian Basil
East Indian basil has a slight lemony smell and taste to it. It is also called “Lamiaceae Tree Basil and East India Basil” the basil grows in the form of a shrub up to 8 feet in height! This basil is most commonly used in salads and beverages.
Fineleaf Dwarf Basil
Fineleaf Dwarf basil is a small basil plant with thin leaves. It is also often referred to as “Fine Leaf basil” this basil is another choice for all your Italian dishes and pasta sauces. The leaves are tender and bruise easily so handle with care.
Finissimo Basil
Finissimo basil is also known as “Finissimo Verde A Palla” basil. It is a type of Bush basil and one of Italy’s oldest and favorite basils. It has tiny leaves that are full of flavor and smell wonderful. This basil is best used in Italian dishes but also compliments many other dishes nicely.
Fino Verde Basil
Fino Verde basil is a small basil plant and loved by cooks everywhere. This basil is sweet and can be used in any dish that requires basil. It has small leaves and compliments green salads nicely.
Gecofure Basil
Gecofure basil is hybrid basil and can be grown anytime of the year. It has a wonderful taste and goes with any dishes and will kitchen with a sweet aroma while cooking. It has large leaves and makes a nice garnish too.
Genovese Basil
Genovese basil is rated one of the best basils out of all the varieties. It has just the right amount of flavor to be used in any dish. This basil is especially loved by chefs and cooks who enjoy a good pesto sauce!
Genovese Special Select Basil
Genovese Special Select basil is a combination of six basils; Cinnamon, Genovese, Tall Lemon, Lime, Mammoth and Purple Petra. This is a wonderful blend of basil’s and compliments both main dishes and desserts very nicely.
Goddess Basil
Goddess basil has bright green, tiny leaves that are full of flavor. This basil is very spicy and considered a gourmet basil. It goes great in pasta sauces, chili and Mexican dishes.
Grandi Foglie Valentino Basil
Particularly appreciated for its compact growth, forming small uniform bush and its fine leaves, large, crinkly and drooping, bright green and with a strong aroma without mintiness. Vigorous, compact plant. Perfect for use in dressings and sauces.
Greek Basil
Greek basil is a dwarf plant this species of basil is also classified as a gourmet basil and loved by chefs! It has a strong flavor so only a small amount is needed, it tastes great in any dish.
Green Bouquet Basil
Green Bouquet basil is a small plant that makes a lovely garden border. It is flavorful and sweet. This basil goes well with meat, fish and sauces. If you like sweet pasta dishes it compliments these dishes nicely also.
Green Ruffles Basil
Green Ruffles basil is commonly called just “Green Ruffles” the basils leaves are ruffled almost like lettuce. This basil has a rich flavor is perfect for pasta dishes. It has a mild smell and with delicate ruffle leaves, it makes for a very good garden plant.
Holy Green Basil
Holy Green basil is also called “Holly Green, Tulsi basil and Indian Sacred Basil” this basil has a very strong flavor and scent and is favored by gourmet cooks all around the world. It is a great basil for Thai dishes.
Italian Cameo Basil
Italian Cameo basil is a blend of Sweet Genovese and Dwarf Basil, both of which are sweet, spicy and absolutely delicious in pasta sauces, pizza sauce and pesto! With this blend you cannot go wrong when looking for the perfect basil for your favorite pasta dish.
Italian Large Leaf Basil
Italian Large Leaf basil is an Italian cook’s favorite basil. This basil is full of flavor and sweeter than most basil, it’s a perfect ingredient for pasta sauce or any Italian dish.
Italiano Classico Basil
Italiano Classico basil is a favored basil in Italy. This classic blend is made of primary Genova basil with a hint of sweet basil. This basil is a favorite for making pesto.
Jacob Kline Basil
Jacob Kline basil is a beautiful plant with a lovely scent. It is also known by several other names “Firecracker Plant, Jacob Cline Bee Balm, Oswego Tea” this basil is a welcome addition in pesto and pasta dishes.
Key Lime Basil
Key Lime basil is not a gourmet basil but a “specialty” it can be very difficult to find due to its popular demand. It gets its name from the fresh scent of lime that whiffs from the plant. It is most often used in beverages and desserts and can also be used in fish and seafood dishes.
Lemon Basil
Lemon basil is one of the most popular basils. It comes in all shapes and sizes. All lemon basil has both a lemon flavor and scent, some varieties are more potent than others. Lemon basil goes well with any fish or seafood dish, dessert and pasta sauce if you like a tangy kick in your sauce.
Lemon Lime Basil Blend
This Blend is sold with two different seeds in one package. Has a freshly citrus scented and is mild enough for flavoring grilled fish or shrimp salad. Pasta dishes with vegetables and chicken are delicious with the tasty citrus based basil. Lemon Lime basil is an essential basil for anyone comtemplating cooking with basil.
Lettuce Leaf Basil
Lettuce Leaf basil as you can see by the photograph has a strong resembles to lettuce, hence the name Lettuce Leaf basil. The leaves are fragrant and the flavor is semi-mild making this basil great for pesto or those who prefer to stay away from the spicy basils.
Licorice Basil
Licorice basil is not only a beautiful plant when the flowers bloom it has a wonderful scent. There are a few different varieties of Licorice basil and it is also known as “Anise Licorice basil” but it is not the same as Anise basil. This basil does indeed have a licorice flavor to it and is popular in desserts and beverages.
Lime Basil
Lime basil has a strong scent and taste. This basil is fantastic in desserts, beverages, fish dishes and salad dressings and oils. It also works wonders for living up the taste of several other dishes including poultry, and vegetables.
Limelight Basil
Limelight basil is as beautiful to look at as it is to taste. This unique basil is all the rave in the culinary world! Limelight basil is perfect for every dish, including main entrees, vegetables, casseroles, desserts, breads, soups and beverages.
Magic Blue Basil
Magic Blue basil is also known as “African Blue Basil” this is a colorful plant it has a nice mixture of purple and green it offers a light scent and a flavorful taste. Chefs have found this basil to rate low on the basil scale but for the average cook it is a decent basil. It can be used in any dish.
Magic Michael Basil
Magic Michael basil is an attractive plant with white and purple leaves it makes for a nice garden plant. The plant can be harvested in only 30 days! The basil is sweet with an even sweeter fragrance. This basil is great in salads and can be used in most culinary dishes.
Magic Mountain Basil
Magic Mountain basil is a spectacular plant! Not only is it beautiful it is mouth watering! This basil is mild tasting and is a great addition to your pasta sauces and salads.
Magical Michael Basil
Magical Michael basil is a hardy and attractive plant with its dark maroon flowers it’s a welcome addition to any garden. The basil is sweet and tastes superb in pasta dishes, pesto, deserts and salads. It also makes a great garish.
Mammoth Green and Purple Basil
Mammoth basil gets its name from the “mammoth” size leafs it produces. It is the largest leaf basil of all varieties. The leaves can be green or purple. Mammoth basil is very popular and sometimes stores are sold out of the plants especially in the off season.
Marseillais Dwarf Basil
Marseillais Dwarf basil is a compact basil with large leaves that sport pretty little yellow and white flowers when in bloom. Marseillais dwarf basil is also known as “Marsellais, Marseille, Marseilles, Marsellais and Provence” this basil is great for all dishes but especially French cuisine.
Medinette Basil
Medinette basil is another form of a compact bush basil it has a sweet flavor and aroma. It is best used with meat dishes and sea food and can also be used as a mild form of basil in pasta sauces and salad dressings.
Mediterranean Medley Basil
Mediterranean Medley basil is a beautiful purple and green plant that contains three types of basil in one plant: Genovese – small leaved Lemon Basil, dark leaved Opal Purple and green Ararat. This blend of basil is perfect for any dish and is a chef’s delight!
Mexican Basil
Mexican basil has a hint of cinnamon flavor and scent. It is favorite basil for Mexican dishes. It can also be used in pasta sauces and added to green salads and it makes a delicious cup of tea!
Mexican Cinnamon Spice Basil
Mexican Cinnamon Spice basil is very similar to the Mexican Basil with a few exceptions, Mexican Cinnamon Spice basil is spicy and has a more potent cinnamon flavor and scent. This basil is very tasty in pasta dishes and Mexican dishes.
Minette Basil
Minette basil is an attractive addition for your garden with its flowing leaves it is best used as a border in the garden. It has a gently aroma and a tasty flavor. This basil can be used in pasta dishes, pesto, salads and chefs use it in a variety of dishes that call for a mild flavored basil.
Mini Purple Basil
Mini Purple basil as you can see by the photograph is anything but mini! However, it is a beautiful garden plant and a flavor basil for any culinary dish. It has a nice scent and will attract bees in the garden, so you may want to keep it as a separate potted plant.
Minimum Basil
Minimum basil has tiny fragile little leaves that bruise easily so tender loving care is needed. For such a small and fragile basil plant it packs a powerful flavor. It is recommended that you only use a small amount in your dishes. Known as the “Classic French Basil”
Mrs. Burns Lemon Basil
Mrs. Burns Lemon basil has a very lemony scent and flavor. Has pretty pink flowers and was discover in New Mexico. Has become a best seller in the world of basil! Be careful when adding this basil to your dish it is so strong it will make your eyes water and mouth pucker.
Napolitano Basil
Napolitano basil is best used in salads and will compliment any pasta dish. It has a mild sweet flavor. The leaves are tender is it is best to remove the leaves just before using them. Be gently when washing so you don’t tear or bruise them.
New Guinea Basil
New Guinea basil is another favorite of world famous chefs. This basil has a spicy mint flavor and the aroma of licorice. It can be used in any culinary dish or dessert that calls for basil. It is an attractive plant with purple flowers and really stands out in the garden.
Nufar Basil
Nufar basil is a sub variety of Genovese basil which is a hardy basil and a great choice if this is your first attempt at growing basil. It is resistant to many of the diseases and pests that are known to attack basil plants. It has a great scent and a wonderful flavor. It is a good basil for all dishes.
Opal Basil
Opal basil is a beautiful plant and should be placed in the center of your garden for optimal viewing. It has a sweet clove fragrant scent and a flavorful taste. It is also known as “Opal Purple Veriegated basil” this basil can be used in any culinary dish.
Osmin Purple Basil
Osmin Purple basil has a sweet and fruity flavor and scent. The flowers range from lavender to dark purple in color. Osmin purple basil is used in several dishes that require basils an ingredient. It is very popular with bakers who need a fruity tasting basil for a scrumptious dessert.
Persian Anise Basil
Persian Anise basil is also known as “Anise basil” when mature the leaves have a tint of purple to them. Persian Anise basil has an Anise flavor and scent. It can be used in any culinary dish that needs a slightly sweet flavor to it. It is also popular in desserts and beverages.
Pesto Perpetuo Basil
Pesto Perpetuo basil is a unique looking plant it is almost impossible to identify as a basil plant unless you are an expert. It has 3 colored leaved that makes it stand out in a crowd of plants. As the name implies it is the basil of choice for pesto.
Picolino Basil
Picolino basil is a type of bush basil, it has small delicate leaves it has a sweet aroma and often used in numerous types of culinary dishes including soups, salads and vegetables. It is also called “piccoline” chefs use this basil with dishes the require mozzarella cheese.
Pinetree Basil
Pinetree basil mix is a spicy flavored basil and favored by cooks for use in pasta dishes, and spicy dishes. It has a bit of a nutty taste as well and a slight nutty scent.
Pistou Basil
Pistou basil is a bush basil and also known as the new and improved version of the Minette basil. This basil has the same tiny fragile leaves so handle with care. It is especially favored in French cuisine. It has a very sweet smell and smells fantastic while cooking.
Plenty Basil
Plenty basil is a quick growing basil and a sturdy plant. It grows year around and can be harvested year round. Plenty basil is a garden variety basil there is nothing particularly special about it. It tastes great in all dishes and has a mild scent.
Profuma di Genova Basil
Italitan grocers always keep a stand of this basil to offer shoppers a convenient supply of this fresh spicy basil. It’s neither minty tasting nor does it taste of cloves, but instead the leafy Profumo offers clean basil taste and is if compact shape.
Purple Basil
Purple basil has purple flowers and will fit in any garden. This particular type of purple basil is a generic version and is used in pasta sauces and Italian dishes it has a mild to moderate flavor.
Purple Dark Opal Basil
Purple Dark Opal basil is one of the most attractive basil plants and will certainly be eye catching your garden. This basil is great for salad vinegar mixes, in salads and as a garnish with any meal or dessert. It has a lovely scent and a fairly strong flavor.
Purple Delight Basil
Purple Delight basil is very similar to Purple Dark Opal basil except the purple delight has no green at all it is strictly an all purple basil plant which makes it perfect for a garden, it certainly is easy on the eyes. This basil plant has strong leaves and is strongly scented and rich in flavor.
Purple Petra Basil
Purple Petra basil is a delicate little plant with purple flowers. Handling with care is required bruised leaves are not very tasty. It has a light mint flavor with a slight basil aftertaste. Its scent is also mild. This basil plant can be planted in a garden but is best planted in a pot unless you don’t mind all your other plants smelling like mint.
Purple Ruffles Basil
Purple Ruffles basil has a licorice and cinnamon flavor. This basil is known to be temperamental it does not like wet weather or hot weather growing can be a challenge. However, it is certainly worth the challenge when fully grown the ruffled leaves and dark purple color make for a beautiful plant.
Queen of Sheba Basil
Queen of Sheba basil is a summer plant it has long beautiful purple flowers and is a rather “show-off” plant for your garden. For culinary dishes it is fantastic in any dish it has a mild flavor. Many chefs have labeled the Queen of Sheba as the “Queen Basil!”
Queenette Basil
Queenette basil is a Thai basil and used primary in Thai foods and spicy dishes as well as vegetable dishes. It is a beautiful garden plant with dark green leaves, purple and red flowers. It has an anise flavor and aroma.
Rau Que Basil
Rau Que basil is also known as “Vietnamese basil and Horapha Rau Que basil” this plant has an anise flavor and scent. It is loved by chefs around the world for many culinary dishes especially Vietnamese dishes. This basil is also a perfect fit for vegetables and pasta dishes.
Red Basil
Red basil despite the picture is actually purple when in full bloom. This basil is also called “Red Rubin Basil”. This basil will liven up any garden with its natural beauty and scent. This basil is a sweet one and excellent for any dish that requires a sweet basil.
Red Holy Basil
Red Holy basil is native to India this basil is also known as ” Ram Tulsi and Green Holy Basil” it is a lovely plant with both green and purple leaves. The people of India believe this basil is a great source of protection and plant it near their front doors and in public places before an important event. It can also be used in any culinary dish.
Red Osmin Basil
Red Osmin basil is a pretty plant with ruffled edges and two toned purple colors making a great plant for the garden or as a potted plant on the patio. This basil can be used in any culinary dish it has a sweet mild taste and flavor and it taste great in a salad.
Sacred Thai Basil
Sacred Thai basil is also known as “Anise Basil, Siam Queen” this basil is a must have in any garden. It has hardy green leaves and purplish-red flowers. It is used in a large assortment of culinary dishes and loved by chefs around the world. It is used in every Thai dish that requires basil, it has a splendid licorice flavor and scent!
Serata Basil
Serata basil has a ruffled almost lettuce leaf look to it. The leaves do not change to a purplish color like many of the other basils this one remains green which makes it a great border for your garden. It is a great basil for an culinary dish.
Siam Queen Basil
Extra large leaf size and large plants mean more intense liquorice fragrance. The bright green leaves make an attractive background for the purple-red stems with violet-pink flowers.
Spicy Globe Basil
Spicy Globe basil is another all green basil plant that looks nice when used as a garden border. It has a very strong flavor and scent. It is favored by Italian chefs and cooks who love a good spicy meal.
Spicy Saber Basil
Spicy Saber basil is a favorite basil of Asian chefs. This basil is very spicy and even a pinch will give an ordinary dish a little extra piazza. It even smells spicy so don’t stick your nose to close to this beautiful plant!
Sumatran Basil
The original seeds came from a seed trader in Sumatra. The basil leaf is a shiny, pointed medium green foliage, with a spicy pepper-anise fragrance and flavor.
Summerlong Basil
Summerlong basil has the scent of summer and this basil is “unstoppable” it produces basil at a rapid rate all summer long. It has a lovely scent and a fantastic flavor that will have your mouth watering from first to last bite.
Super Sweet Chen Basil
Super Sweet Chen basil is a tender plant so care must be taken when handling. It is an all green type of basil and can be used as a border for your garden or planted in pots. This basil produces large leaves and is a favorite for Italian dishes.
Superbo Basil
Superbo basil is an Italian basil used in pesto, pasta sauces, beef, chicken, dips, dressings, fish, and Vegetables (cooked & raw.) The leaves are hardy and durable. This basil has a pleasant slightly spicy taste and aroma.
Sweet Broadleaf Basil
Sweet Broadleaf basil is another type of sweet basil the only difference is the large broad leaves this basil plant produces. It is a rather plain looking plant and would suffice as a garden border. The basil can be used in any culinary dish that calls for sweet basil.
Sweet Dani Basil
Sweet Dani basil has sweet lemon flavor and fragrance. It is loved by cooks and professional chefs every where. It can be used in any culinary dish, dessert or beverage. It is often used in lemony beverages and adds a great flavor to homemade lemonade!
Sweet Genovese Basil
Sweet Genovese basil is one of the most common basils used by cooks. It also makes a wonderful garden border for your more colorful plants. Culinary uses are anything from A-Z that require basil. It taste great sprinkled on buttered carrots!
Sweet Green Basil
Yum, Yum, the delicious leaves are great with your garden staples such as tomatoes,onions, peppers, potatoes, fish, and fowl. We have it right next to the pepper/tomato garden to make it convenient to mix it in. Yes, this is a fresh garden staple and it plays well with most other herbs.
Thai Lemon Basil
Thai Lemon basil is a world classic basil and a favorite for Thai chefs and cooks. The younger this basils leafs are the better tasting. It has a lemony flavor and scent as the name implies. It grows fairly tall so is not really an ideal plant for your garden it could be easily mistaken as weeds by a beginning gardener.
Thai Magic Basil
Thai Magic basil is also known as ”Sweet Thai basil and Oriental basil” this basil produces large leaves and stems and flowers late allowing more time and use for the basil. It is used in Thai dishes and any dish that requires a sweet taste. It has a nice red flower and looks nice in the garden once the flowers have bloomed.
Veseys Blend Basil
Veseys Blend basil is a unique blend of assorted basils, Veseyes is a private label. There is a mixture of sweet and spicy basil and purple and green plants. It is a beautiful plant for any garden. It has a wonderful mixed scent and is a great basil for any culinary dish.
Violetta Aromatico Basil
Violetta Aromatico basil is a green and purple plant and looks great in the garden, it can be started in a pot and transfer it grows quite large. It is suitable for all culinary dishes with its moderate flavor and scent.
Wild Purple Basil
Wild Purple basil grows in the wild and the best place to get the send is straight form a wild plant if you are lucky enough to find one. It is a beautiful basil plant to be envied by all. Wild purple basil is used in numerous culinary dishes around the world.
Window Box Basil
Windowbox basil is a garden variety basil, it can be used in any culinary dish and is best planted and tended to in a window box hence the name. It is a green colored basil with a mild basil scent and flavor.
Yevani Greek Mini Basil
Yevani Greek Mini basil is similar to all the varieties of Greek mini basil this particular basil has a more flavorful taste it’s spicy and has been labeled as the basil lovers “treat.” It is fantastic in any culinary dish and a favorite of Mexican and Italian chefs.
Zulu Basil
Zulu basil is closely related to the spicy basil it has a has a sweet slightly spicy taste and a clove scent. This basil is a culinary favorite among chefs and everyday cooks. It is a lovely plant with green leaves and purple flowers to look at as well. Zulu basil grows in the wild form in Africa.
{ 87 comments… read them below or add one }
Hi Ramona, love the wealth of information you have here on your site. I grow thai basil and love using it in my cooking. You have inspired me to try my hand at growing other basils – must get the ones that grow well in the tropics. Do you have any recommendations for a new herb gardener like myself? Also I heard about a ginger basil recently. Do you know whether it can be used in cooking as well?
I have not heard of Ginger Basil….can you send me a resource for it? I know that there are recipes for ginger and basil….
I would love to add you as a featured Basil Gardener. Will you email me a picture of your and your Thai Basil and write a story and tell me how you use your Thai Basil in your cooking?
Love Your Basil,
Ramona
Could I get you to send me a picture of you with your Thai Basil and a story about you and your Thai Basil so I can feature you as a Basil Gardener? I’d really appreciate it!
Ramona
Hi, just wondering though. Why did you use the same picture for ‘sweet green basil’ and ‘clove basil’? So what breed is this basil with the white flower? is it ‘sweet green’ or ‘clove basil’?
Thank you for a very comprehensive list of the most wonderful basil. It’s really breathtaking. Too bad I can only imagine it’s smell!
I had the wrong picture….thanks for pointing it out. Now I have to rearrange the pictures. Will be updated soon!
Ramona!! Great great .thing youve done in gathering all the basil varieties. Thanks for your contribution to the gardening world. Now, can you provide sources for each of those that youve listed! Most seed outlets list between 5 and 10 varieties. Thans, Mick
Seed companies change the varieties that they offer, but if you google the basil seed type you are looking for, the companies usually come up.
Ref. : Basil – Ms. Ramona, very refreshing, specialised article. Inspite of above mentioned varities, still confused what kind of basil I have in my garden. Some say it is Lemon Basil, some called it “Tulsi”, the one consider holy in Hindu religion. I regularly used not for food, but for tea condiments. Every morning, I have some fresh tips to the office for tea steep 5 minutes. Medically effective in many ways. btw, the whole plant is green, except with white flower. Very strong scent like lemon? Not sweet, but rather bitter/sour taste. It grows tall an average 20″ to 30 inches, easy to grow. Do you this is the Lemon Basil?. Thank you, more power.
continued….
Eratum : Do you think this is the Lemon Basil type? ( Instead of Do you this is the Lemon Basil?).. thanks
Lemon basil has little white flowers, while the Tulsi or Holy basil has purple leaves and mostly has a strong anise flavor. Lemon basil should smell lemony when you pinch and press a leaf between your fingers. There is also a Lime basil that is similar, but smells like lime. Which ever you have should add a nice flavor to your tea.
Have you downloaded my free ebook? It’s in the sidebar.
Love Your Basil,
Ramona
Thanks for your prompt response. I can say now this is a lemon basil. Ill make sure to download ebook. again, thank you very much. (Seen the house, this is actually my dream type, looks like very nature and fresh clean feeling living atmosphere, I hope someday upon retiremen, I can build the same in my semi forest village where i grew up)… ^_^
I hope you can too!
I don’t even want to leave home. I grow and care for my basil and animals and cook with all my basils. Have you taken a look at the recipes?
Keep checking back to the website, I will be launching a Basil membership soon and you’ll really enjoy our Basil community!
Love Your Basil,
Ramona
I thought there was indeed a chocolate basil plant, so I clicked yes on your survey. But what we have a chocolate mint, which smells fantastic.
I do have a question though – is blue spice and Christmas basil the same thing? We have this great basil plant with purple flowers and were told it was Christmas basil, but there is a little tag on it that says blue spice. The scent is wonderful and the bees love it. Any suggestions on how to use it in food/drink?
Thank you for adding to the Chocolate Basil venture! It’s such a mystery. Some say it exists and others say it does not! I still have not found it, but am on the search for it.
Blue Spice Basil has a hint of vanilla to it’s unique aroma while the Christmas Basil is a new Basil and has a hint of pine to it’s aroma. Keep checking back for new recipes, I have not gotten to researching or experimenting with either of these basils yet. If you find a recipe for either, please forward to me and I’ll try and share with our readers.
Thank you for your comments to our Basil Blog. Have you subscribed so you will receive any updates? I am working on a series of reports on bugs on Basil and how to eliminate them naturally. And have you downloaded my free ebook Love Your Basil?
Love Your Basil,
Ramona
This message is for Sharon Hudnell concerning chocolate mint. Where can I get some seeds for that? Thanks Mick
It is best to buy plants from a reputable nursery, as mint often does not come true from seed. And you can propagate them very easily and then you can have them year after year. If it is not a hard freeze they will come back in the spring. If you have a clipping and plant in an indoor container pot, then in the spring if your plant doesn’t come back you can replant from your indoor container.
You can order the plants online if your local nursery doesn’t have them in stock. Try this website: http://www.shop.farmfreshliving.com/Mentha-Chocolate-Mint-Garden-Herb-35-Pot-H1015.htm
Thanks for the basil variety information. I was wondering about my Summerlong Basil. The leaf is quite small and has a bit of a spicy fragrance, but not overpowering. Even the seed packet shows it having a larger leaf. I was afraid to try it in pesto, but I’ll give it a go and let you know how it comes out. Thanks!
I wonder if it is Spicy Globe Basil…. It should make a really great tasting Pesto!
Isn’t lime basil also known as hoary(white)basil?
I’m confused about this. I have both the lime basil and the hoary(white)basil seed.
erika
There is a Thai Hoary Basil, which is also known as Thai Lemon Basil. Lemon and Lime Basils have very different flavors. Hope this helped.
Hello. I’m residing here in the Philippines. I love your site and find it very informative because I’m into organic culinary herbs gardening in my own backyard. I recently received some pack of seeds (Botanical Interests) from my uncle in California. I love cooking and facinated about incorporating herbs to my dishes. In my place not much people using herbs during cooking. So I sell my herbs during Fiesta/Agro Fair to be able to share to them the health benefits of using herbs.
Thank you so much! If you have a picture of you selling your herbs (Basils) and send me a write up about you and selling your basils, and how you love to cook with basil, I will feature you in my Basil Gardener Friends section!
Love Your Basil,
Ramona
Maybe by October of this year, since our city is celebrating a fiesta wherein there will be display of local produce from local farmers. But first I need to polish the exact name of my homegrown Basil after I read from the list. If it’s ok to send some pictures of my Basil for you to help me identify the correct name?
There’s an event in Haddam, CT that I thought you’d find interesting. It’s called Pesto Mania
http://www.pestomania.org
That sounds so interesting! We live in Texas…is there a link to the event?
I have a “Valentino” variety Basil. Didn’t find it on your site. I live in Boise, Idaho, and it’s popular.
I haven’t come across a Valentino Basil! I researched it and it appears to be a variety of Lettuce Leaf Basil. So many of the different varieties of Basil have so many different names, it depends on where they are grown, and sometimes even what nursery they are from, and they can also be a rename of a common Basil.
Since this post, I have found a source for Valentino Basil seeds: http://www.ufseeds.com/Valentino-Basil.item
I would love to get some seeds to grow and add to the Basil List….
I threw away the envelope it came in, but will check the nursery I got it from and can send them to you…. address?…
Hi,
I bought 3 new types of basil plants yesterday. and can’t find any info on them. Do you know these?
1. new york
2. red monet
3. napoli
Also, where can the valentino be purchased. sounds lovely.
erika
I have not heard of your 3 new Basils, but sometimes a nursery or a regional area grower will come up with their own Basil mix and name it exclusively for their reselling purposes. I’d love to see what they look like.
The Valentino Basil seeds can be bought from: http://www.ufseeds.com/Valentino-Basil.item
Love Your Basil,
Ramona
We grower and supplier of exotic vegetables and herbs. we are intresting basil seeds
Do you mean that you have interesting basil seeds, or that you are interested in purchasing basil seeds?
Love Your Basil,
Ramona
I just bought a Boxwood ….when it grows alittle more ,,,,can I cook with it ? I think I got the wrong kind of Basil..
Thank You,
The Ladi,
Yes when it grows a little you can cut it back leaving 1/3 of the plant and leaves. Strip the leaves from the stems and use in your recipe.
You will love the flavor. The leaves are smaller, but don’t let that fool you. They are tasty too.
Love Your Basil,
Ramona
Is the boxwood Basil a perenial? I live in California (zone 16). The sweet basil that my neighbor grows is an annual.
Basil’s are generally annuals. Except, I don’t agree. I have been growing my Basil in my Basil Greenhouse for 3 years so far. I did loose a few to the freeze, we had a blackout for over 4 hours and some did freeze, but others came back and are still going strong.
If you are growing outside, then yes they will be annuals. If in container pots and either in your kitchen or in a greenhouse, then I’m not sure how long they will grow…I’m on 3 years so far…
Hope this helped.
Love Your Basil,
Ramona
Love your Basil is just wonderful !! We have a basil plant in our house. We often use it for tea. Recently I have been using the same basil leaves for pizzas. Just could not imagine that there are so many varieties of basils. In India we call it “Tulsi”. One is light green and the other is slightly darker shade. People say that the darker variety is better. Recently I met a lady who showed us “camphor basil” and “lemon basil”. I would like to know more about basil. You are doing a wonderful job.
Thank you and welcome to the wonderful world of Basil! I hope you will learn to Love Your Basil!
Ramona, I have a basil you don’t have on your list! Its right now, about 1 1/2′ tall, its got little white leaves, & the leaves dry after they pollinate. I’ve been able to collect quite a few seeds from the flowers after they’ve dried, email me if you want some seeds, & I can send them to you if it won’t take too many stamps
I love seeing other amateur herbalist at work & updating their links! I’ve done container gardening last year, & this year I’ll be able to put my herbs & other plants I’m going to grow in the ground. I’m going to germinate indoors mid-Jan to mid-March.
By the way, I got the seed packet from Dollar General, or Walmart, & aren’t at home, so can’t get the Latin name of it, but if I can find it, I’ll post it for you, too. Great job with the list
Monica
I am wanting to start a basil garden. If anyone has any extra seeds to send. I will appreciate it very much and will pay if forward when I have some seeds. My address is 207-B South Oak Brady, Texas 76825. Thank You very much..
Please also post a wish list on my Basil Seed Exchange: http://basilseedexchange.lefora.com/forum/category/basilseedexchange-forum-topics/
I will start you off with some seeds! I’ll get them in the mail right away!
Love Your Basil,
Ramona
Hi Ramona, I have a big cinnamon basil that still has flowers but I brought it inside because where I live Takoma Park, Maryland is already a little cold. But now is loosing all the leaves, will it die? II also have a plant that resembles the mystery chocolate basil.
I really like your basil garden. Felicitaciones.
Olga
It could be just adjusting to the climate change. Make sure it’s not in a draft and not directly in front of heat. Cinnamon Basil does like it warm and in front of a window is great, but not too close to the window, so it won’t feel the cold off the glass. Feed it with worm castings, and water regularly, but don’t keep it soggy. After a few days of adjustment, you might want to cut it back some too. Remember to cut back at new growth joints.
You can purchase worm castings: http://bit.ly/WormCastings
I’m jealous of your Chocolate Basil! I sure would like some seeds.
Love Your Basil,
Ramona
Thanks for a great site.
I have been growing basil outdoors in containers for years, using it in much of my cooking, and giving much to my neighbors.
This year a friend gave me a basil plant she had bought at a street festival in northern California while traveling. It has outgrown all my previous plants and continues to grow even after moving it indoors for the late season. Amazingly, while my sweet basil began to bolt, and finally end-of season die off, this plant continues.
However, I have been unable to identify it.
It grows more in a tall straight form than round. The leaves are more narrow and smaller than sweet basil, and have a very uniform white edging. And it has never bolted or grown flowers.
I would like to find more of this plant, but have no idea where to begin.
Do you have a picture that you can send to me? It sounds like it could be Cuban, Columnar, but the white around the edges is changing my mind. Is it variegated? It could be Sweet Aussie. I’d love to see a picture of it and I can try to identify.
Love Your Basil,
Ramona
PS. This is a beautiful Sweet Aussie Plant!
I haven’t checked in here for a while because I thought it was getting boring, but the last few posts are good quality so I guess I’ll add you back to my daily bloglist
I have been absent for a while, but now I remember why I used to love this blog. Thank you, I’ll try and check back more often.
Guy, speak about a wonderful publish! I?ve stumbled throughout your weblog a few instances inside the previous, but I normally forgot to bookmark it. But not once more! Thanks for posting the way in which you do, I truly value seeing someone who actually features a viewpoint and isn?t seriously just bringing back again up crap like nearly all other writers today. Maintain it up!
I’m starting my first garden this year and ever since I tried Pesto for the first time earlier this year I’ve been wanting to grow basil. I never knew there were so many kinds of Basil (lemon sounds awesome), but if anyone could part with some seeds it would be much appreciated. Kyle Shope 1718 Randall RD Texarkana, Texas 75501
You’ll love being able to harvest your fresh basil anytime you want to make Pesto!
Hi Ramona,
I have just started a collection of basils for a small garden and was looking for a picture of herb basil puck, can you help soure that one. I really love your basil garden.
sincerely Lydia
All a Basil Puck is – Basil Puck has been bred for growing in pots or on a windowsill, a large leaved variety it combines a condensed habit with the culinary qualities of basil Genovese. Which Best Buy – Basil Puck best large leaved variety.
I would use the Genovese variety…
I am truly inspired by the number of the different hues and colours of a wide variety of basil plants. And to think that there is a chocolate basil. I wish I could get some of the seeds.
Thanks
Josh
Me too.
Hi,
I know Basil is an annual plant but I have babies that pop-up out of nowhere in the pots I grow Basil in the year before. Is that whats suppose to happen, they seed themselves?
Thanks, Misty
Yes, they can seed themselves! I also have annual basils that I keep in my basil greenhouse that are 3 years old….
When I posted last year about chocolate basil, I was incorrect. It was chocolate mint, which also smells fabulous!
Misty, I am also experiencing basil growing in old pots from last year.
Hi, I am a huge basil fan, especially of the large leaf varieties. So I was searching google for giant basil and found this image, do you have any idea what this variant is called? It seems to be larger than any of the ones here:
http://www.startribune.com/blogs/56390437.html
I also think it’s a Lettuce Leaf Basil that has just been taken care of. Lettuce Leaf Basil without pests and fertilized very well, can grow to be very large. Or it could be a Basil that has been created special for a seed company. Seed company’s are always working on their own signature Basils…sometimes, cross pollinated with other basil’s for different flavors, more pest resistant, and to be unique for the company.
Love Your Basil,
Ramona
Yes that is probably right. I have also asked at a german herb gardener, (Ruehlemanns, maybe you heard of them, they featured your basil video on their blog), and they said Napolitano Mammoth leafed basil, a lettuce leaf variety. Probably the biggest one of all?
I have been growing cut flowers for the Prescott Farmer’s Market for nine years. Two years ago we had an herb day and I was dismayed to learn that most folks under the age of 40 did not know how to use fresh herbs. Even after telling them and offering recipes, no one was really interested in buy fresh herbs so I turned my herbs into cookies and jelly and they sell like hot cakes. Now that I have read through your exhaustive list of basils I believe I will try basil jelly. Where can I buy the plants/seeds for some of the unusual ones? Especially the sweet ones. Thank you. I am new to your blog but for sure I will be stopping back often
I use several online suppliers…. Ritcher’s Herb and Vegetable Seeds Johnney’s Selected Seeds and Park Seeds are just a few suppliers.
I hope this helped and I sure would love a picture of you with your Basil products and a write up to feature on my blog!
Love Your Basil,
Ramona
I’m growing Lettuce Leaf Basil and everything was fine and now they have stopped growing. I have them in a pot, should I transplant them to another pot or maybe transplant them in the ground? I’m also growing Genovese Basil and it’s doing great! Thanks for your help!
Thank you for Loving Your Basil! Are you clipping some leaves from your Basil Plant…it’s like when you get your hair trimmed, it causes healthier growth. You can try to replant in a larger pot and see if it’s root bound. If your Basil is doing really good in pots, I’d leave in pots and then in the cooler weather bring in and keep it growing!
Love Your Basil,
Ramona
What a great site! I am looking for the name and pictures of a little basil bush with clusters of flowers, they’re not the usual little white flowers on a long stem but definitely “heart” shaped clumps of flowers. I had seen them in Tahiti some years ago but somehow no one grows them anymore. Any help would be greatly appreciated.
I’m not sure, but if you have a picture of the Basil, I’d be happy to try to get the name of it for you.
Love Your Basil,
Ramona
Love your site. It is packed full of good information. I have a couple of questions: how much direct sun should I give my basil plants? I live near Austin, TX and the sun here can be harsh. I read that you would grow your plants under the pecan trees – do they get enough light that way? Also, please recommend basils with the LEAST licorice taste. ‘Seems that every plant I get from the local nurseries tastes too much like licorice. Thank you.
We have some relatives in the Austin area that are very successful at growing basil in direct sunlight. We have our entire yard shaded by big pecan trees, so I always have to garden for shade. There goes a lot of the vegetables. I also grown my Basil’s in my greenhouse so I can grow year round.
Have you tried Super Sween Chen, or Serata Basil? I’m not sure what varieties you are trying…. Lettuce Leaf is another one of my favorites.
Love Your Basil,
Ramona
I planted what looks like spicy globe bush basil, but there are berries growing on it. Is this really basil?
I have not seen Basil with berries on it. Can you send a picture???
At first I thought it might be a Bell Pepper Basil, but it’s not. It’s not a Basil plant.
I’m not sure what type plant it is either…sorry I couldn’t have told you what it is, but when you find out will you let me know?
Love Your Basil,
Ramona
can i buy herbs or seeds from you? thanks
I’m sorry, but at this time, I don’t sell herbs or seeds…but you can look on line and companies will mail them direct to you…keep watching my site, I will in the future.
Love Your Basil,
Ramona
Hi Ramona
GREAT SITE !! the pictures are just what i was looking for. I do have a question though, I purchased a”basil” plate at a farmers market that was called “Pineapple Basil”
it has grown huge in my garden and now in the fall it has bright red spike type flowers.
I havent really used it for anything but would love to know more about it, what i can use the leaves for, is it in fact called “pineapple basil” and is it edible?
I can take and send a picture if youd like let me know.
Oh, yes, Pineapple Basil is edible. It can be used in Thai recipes and it pairs very well.
Please take a picture of yourself with your beautiful Pineapple Basil plant and send it to me with a write up on why You Love Your Basil. I’d love to add to you our Basil Gardener Friends on the blog! Or if you come up with a recipe using Pineapple Basil and take a picture of it too!
Love Your Basil,
Ramona
I had a pineapple basil and lost it to an unexpected frost last month. I’ve been hunting around but can’t find seeds or a plant anywhere. I was beginning to think I was imagining its existence! If anyone knows where I can get seeds please let me know.
I have not heard of Pineapple Basil…I know there is a Pineapple Sage. I will post out to our readers and maybe someone will have a source for us!
I have not seen Pineapple Basil for myself, nor found seeds. But I have seen it used in recipes….all Basil’s are edible and if you are lucky enough to find the Pineapple Basil, I sure would like a source!
I am contacting you on behalf of Cartera Commerce. We manage the rewards card programs for United & American Airlines, Upromise, Cabela’s, Barclay’s and IHG. We have been working with several well known companies such as Walmart, Best Buy, Lowe’s, Zale’s, Quizno’s, CVS, GAP and Adidas just to name a few, for the past ten years. We have developed a new marketing and advertising opportunity that we would like to extend to you as a local business. We, along with our customers, feel it is time to help support local and small businesses. You have worked hard to make your business what it is today and deserve the same advertising benefits that the branded names enjoy.
Is your business where you would like it to be? Are you enjoying 100% capacity, 100% of the time? Do you ever struggle with empty tables, un-booked appointment schedules, slow merchandise turn over or any of the other obstacles facing many business owners such as yourself? We can help you overcome these hurdles and maximize your success at reaching your full potential.
What we have created is a no upfront cost program that would advertise and promote your business on all six of our reward online shopping malls. This program has been proven to generate a generous return on investment for participants. For every dollar that is invested in the program, you can expect to receive four to six back in return.
Understanding that time is money, I will provide you with my information and let you contact me at your convenience to further discuss the details of this exciting partnership in the program. As mentioned before, this is a new program and unfortunately our spots are limited. I look forward to hearing from you soon so we can get this implemented for your business as soon as possible. With the holiday shopping and travel season quickly approaching, I would love to be able to get you on board before all that profit passes by.
Thanks again for your time!
Have a GREAT sales day!
Michael Carathers
Cartera Commerce
3348 Peachtree Road NE
Tower Place 200, Suite 300
Atlanta, GA 30326
1.866.295.3628 Ext. 35006
We have a different website that might me more appropriate for your program. http://TexasCruiseCompany.com if you are still interested in sharing your great program with us, please let me know…
Ramona Werst
325-835-7561
RamonaWerst@gmail.com
Yes there is a chocolate basil. I saw and tasted it on a trip to snyder farm, a research farm run by Rutgers University (NJ). They have a huge selection of basil plants that they are growing for some research project, but I am not sure what it is. Personally I did not think that the chocolate basil tasted very chocolate like you really had to use your imagination on it.
I sure would like more information on this research center….a picture of the chocolate basil would be perfect!
I can imagine you wouldn’t want to replace chocolate with chocolate basil in a recipe! lol
Love Your Basil,
Ramona
Here is the answer regarding Chocolate Basil. The author of this article spent years trying to track it down.
http://www.herbcompanion.com/gardening/is-chocolate-basil-an-urban-myth.aspx
I followed up on the post for the Chocolate Basil being at Snyder Farm in NJ. While none of the information posted on the site indicates anything regarding that specific plant, there is a URL listed below that will take you to the folks who are currently doing research on basil. There are 4 contacts listed there. Even if the plant you are looking for is not there, these might be some good people to know.
http://snyderfarm.rutgers.edu/ongoing.html#&panel1-6
Got a question about Hoary Basil. Evergreenseeds.com has these seeds listed separately: Hoary, Holy(green leaf), Holy(red leaf), Thai Lemon, and Sacred basil. What makes Hoary different than the others?
Hoary basil may refer to a number of plant species:
Pycnanthemum incanum (aka Hoary mountainmint)
Ocimum americanum or Ocimum canum
Ocimum kilimandscharicum
I LOVE your list of basils and I think our readers will too, so I posted a link on our upcoming blog article about basil. Thank you for your dedication.
Susanna Krizo
Editor, The Master’s Apprentice
A Ministry of CCI
{ 3 trackbacks }