Description
A half hardy annual, the most common variety being Common/Sweet basil which grows up to 2ft (60cm) high. It grows up to 2ft (30cm) tall. The leaves are oval to triangular in shape, large, toothed and with a strong clove like fragrance. The flowers are creamy white, small, aromatic and appear in clusters of 6 in late summer. Its stem is light green, giving way to a reddish colour towards the base. It is hairy, has fine ridges and branches. The seeds are dark brown and tear shaped, approximately 1mm long. Other varieties are:

Lemon basil (O.b. 'Citriodorum'):

which has a lemony scent, green leaves and white flowers. It grows to 12" (30cm) high.

Dark Opal basil (O.b. 'Purpurascens'):

which has crinkled dark purple leaves and pale pink flowers.

Bush basil (Ocinum minimum):

which is a good indoor plant, but can also be grown under glass and then moved outside. It grows to only 12" high.

Cultivation

Site:	Prefers warm sun and well drained, moist soil. Shelter from wind, frost and scorching.
Propagation:	In spring, sow seeds thinly in a heated area. Sow in pots/on site outdoors if there is no danger of frost.
General Care:	Thin to 8" (20cm) apart in early summer. Water at midday, damp down leaves in hot weather. Avoid overwatering seedlings.
Harvest:	Pick young leaves as required. Gather flowering tops as they begin to open.

Preservation: Freeze leaves after coating in olive oil. Infuse in oil/vinegar. Store whole leaves in alternate layers of leaf, salt, olive oil in freezer or fridge. Dry.

Relationships: Do not grow with rue and sage, as these 3 tend to have adverse effects on each other.