Bush Basil (Ocimum minimum)

Family: Lamiaceae or Labiatae | Edibility: Choice Edible (4/5)

Ocimum minimum is a ANNUAL growing to 0.3 m (1ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 10 and is frost tender. It is in flower from August to September, and the seeds ripen in September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Nuts/Seeds, Leaves, Flowers

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

flavouring or as a spinach, they are used especially with tomato dishes, pasta sauces, beans, peppers and aubergines. — Leaves and flowers - raw or cooked.; Used as a flavouring or as a spinach, they are used especially with tomato dishes, pasta sauces, beans, peppers and aubergines.; The leaves are normally used fresh but can also be dried for winter use.; A very pleasant addition to salads, the leaves have a delightful scent of cloves.

Habitat & North American Range

Long cultivated, its original habitat is obscure. (Zone 9)