Ocimum basilicum x citriodorum 'Lesbos' 'Greek Columnar'

Basil

Basil Facts:

Basil is native to Iran, India and tropical regions of Asia where it has been cultivated for over 5,000 years.

Basil comes from the Greek word basileus or 'king' because it is believed to have grown on the spot where St. Constantine and Helen discovered the Holy Cross.

Research has shown that basil is toxic to mosquitoes and has antioxidant, anticancer, antiviral, and antimicrobial properties.

Basil plants can not tolerate frost and may be damaged by cold temperatures.

Once a basil stem produces flowers, it stops foliage production. Keep plants pinched to encourage growth and prevent from flowering.

-from Wikipedia

This non-flowering selection forms a unique columnar habit. Tender perennials produces attractive foliage with hearty flavor. Culinary herb for gardens and containers. Leaves may be used fresh or dried in culinary dishes.

Additional:

did you know?

The name basil is derived from the Greek word for "king." In many ancient cultures, the herb was revered and could be cut only with gold or silver utensils. In India, where it is a sacred herb of the gods Vishnu and Krishna, sprigs of holy basil () are often placed upon the dead to protect them from evil as they pass into their next lives.



Read more at Marthastewart.com: Lemon basil: Ocimum basilicum Citriodorum - Martha Stewart Home and Garden

Basil Growing and Maintenance Tips:

Basil is very sensitive to cold temperatures and should not be planted outside until temperatures have warmed.

Basil plants can be mulched to conserve soil moisture.

The plants should be pruned every two to three weeks to maintain a compact plant. The prunings can be used fresh in cooking or dried for later use.

-Still, Steven "Manual of Herbaceous Ornamental Plants"

Harvested basil will keep for a week in a glass of water out of direct sun, but these cold-sensitive plants will blacken quickly if refrigerated. To preserve basil longer, place washed leaves with olive oil in a blender and puree. Freeze the resulting pesto in ice-cube trays. Once frozen, remove pesto cubes and transfer to freezer bags.

Read more at Marthastewart.com: Lemon basil: Ocimum basilicum Citriodorum - Martha Stewart Home and Garden

Height:

24-36 Inches

Spread:

9-12 Inches

Hardiness Zone:

Annual

 
Item Description
4" Round Purple Pot Ready-to-Plant in a Container or Garden
 

Characteristics & Attributes for Ocimum basilicum x citriodorum 'Lesbos' 'Greek Columnar'

Foliage Color
• Green
Exposure
• Full Sun
Soil Moisture
• Average Water
• Moist, Well-Drained
Habit
• Upright
Season of Interest (Foliage)
• Summer
Uses
• Bedding Plant
• Herb Garden
• Container - Filler (Mounding)