Wild Basil (Clinopodium vulgare)

Family: Lamiaceae or Labiatae | Edibility: Edible (2/5)

Clinopodium vulgare is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.5 m (1ft 8in) by 0.5 m (1ft 8in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7 and is not frost tender. It is in flower from July to September, and the seeds ripen from August to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, Lepidoptera (Moths & Butterflies), insects.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

flavouring in cooked foods or fresh as a flavouring in salads. — Edible leaves - used fresh or dried as a flavouring in cooked foods or fresh as a flavouring in salads.; A sweet and aromatic herb tea is made from the fresh leaves.

Habitat & North American Range

Heaths and dry grassy places, usually on calcareous soils. (Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9)