holy basil
Ocimum tenuiflorum
USDA zones3 to 11
SunHandles full sun to partial sun
WaterHandles moderate to moist soil
Size12 to 24 inches tall12 to 24 inches wide
- Growth rate
- Rapid
- Habit
- Erect
- Bloom season
- Spring, summer, autumn
- Bloom color
- Pink, purple, white
- Foliage color
- Green
- Soil types
- Sand, loam
- Soil pH
- Acid, alkaline, neutral
Garden uses
Attracts
Notes
Holy basil (Ocimum tenuiflorum) is an herb for borders, containers, and food gardens. It is typically grown as an annual. It cannot take cold, and a freeze will end its season. This plant likes full or part sun and average to moist, sandy or loamy soil. Fragrant leaves and pink, purple, or white blooms attract butterflies and bees. It is not a favorite of deer or rabbits, though hungry ones will eat almost anything.
Pairs well with Oregano, African marigold, and Nasturtium.
Native range
Southeast Asia.