Each of these varieties offers something unique, and they’re all easy to cultivate. Cohen, M. M. (2014). Tulsi-Ocimum sanctum: A herb for all reasons. A light green plant spotted with white flowers, this basil variety will grow to around 24-inches-tall. for the spinach and greens. instead of your usual coffee. The sweet, distinct flavor offers slight hints of licorice though, which may not be right for everyone. As its name suggests, this type of basil isn’t green like most herbs. Wood, M. (2008). I prefer the latter as it saves me a lot of space and my herb garden is more eye-catching. As a result, you can expect it to return every year as long as the plants don’t freeze. Basil plants are some of the easiest herbs to grow. There are over 160 cultivars to choose from, and all are delicious, fragrant, and many add ornamental interest to the garden. The difference lies in the leaves, which are more feathery in appearance. It has a full licorice taste and a scent of spicy cloves. Do Not Sell My Personal Information – CA Residents. Its leaves can be used to make tea for boosting your immune system. What can I say? Their leaves are fantastic for baking, adding to hot drinks and tossing through fresh fruit salad. It has the same flavor as Opal and can be used similarly. Suppakul, P., Miltz, J., Sonneveld, K., & Bigger, S. W. (2003). Our experts will call you on your preferred time. When they’re ready, pot them, and voila, your own basil plant! Thai basil is a must-have in any Asian dish such as curry or noodle dishes like pho. If you’re looking to incorporate basil into your diet, try this delicious. Some stores even sell it in pots so you can cultivate your own indoor basil plant. Some of these links may be affiliate in nature, meaning we earn small commissions if items are purchased. Tulsi-Ocimum sanctum: A herb for all reasons. Rochester, VT: Healing Arts Press. ‘Minette’ is a compact, small-leaved Greek cultivar, O. basilicum var minimum, with a mounding habit that’s adorable as an edging plant, in containers, or in knot gardens. One great tip that I stumbled upon is to buy organic herbs from the grocery store and place their stems in some water so they will root. If you live in a colder environment, you may consider protecting your basil plants. Sweet basil is the most familiar basil used to make pesto. Brought to market by Ferry-Morse in the 1950s, ‘Dark Opal’ was a winner of the All-America Selections Award in the flower category in 1962. It can taste bitter when consumed raw, so it’s best to cook with this type of basil. As a result, it’s perfect for containers, or for an herb garden border. Basil is a versatile herb, and one of the easiest to grow. minimum is a compact variety with small leaves, tiny white flowers, and a neat, globular growth habit that makes it attractive in containers, edging, or rockeries. They’re very sensitive to frost. Check out this Easy Vegan Pad Thai recipe from The Spruce and top it with delicious thai basil for a punch of flavour. This variety has a delightful fragrance and spicy flavor. Tulsi has spiritual connotations as it is revered in India. If you live in a hot location, your basil plants will benefit from afternoon shade. It’s used for medicinal purposes in Ayurveda, but you’ll also find it in many Thai dishes like pad kra pao. It will mature earlier than any other type of basil, and is also slower to bolt. ‘Cinnamon’ is a sweet-flavored cultivar with a distinctive cinnamon taste that’s delicious in baked goods, jellies, and vinegars. While she spends most of her time writing these days, she still exercises her culinary muscles on the regular, taking any opportunity to turn local, seasonal ingredients into beautiful meals for her family. It has a deeply spicy fragrance and strong flavor that’s best used in salad dressings, sauces, soups, and stews.