Basil Crimson King - Ocimum basilicum

'Crimson King' is a Genovese type variety. Its large, dark red leaves are tender and aromatic. They are fabulous eaten fresh on salads and are perfect for making pistou soup. This compact variety is well suited to growing in pots. Sow from March to April for a harvest 3 months later.

Basil is native to the tropical regions of Asia and Africa and has been used in the Mediterranean region since Antiquity. Romans hailed it as the symbol of love... whereas Ancient Greeks considered basil to be the plant of hatred and misfortune! Depending on the variety, plants will reach 30-50 cm in height. Like most members of the Lamiaceae family, the erect, branched stems are square. The leaves of this delightful herb can be eaten fresh or dried. They are widely used in salads, marinades or pesto to accompany pasta, meat or fish. As well as being rich in essential oils, basil has anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory and stimulating properties.

Harvesting and storage: for immediate use, harvest the leaves as and when required from July to October. Basil will stay fresh for a few days in a glass filled with water, away from direct sunlight. It can also be dried and kept in an airtight jar, although it will inevitably lose some of its aroma.

Good to know: Basil benefits from a supply of well-rotted compost (3 kg/m²) in late autumn or early spring. Weed and hoe regularly to keep the weeds down. Pinching the flowering stems will lead to a bushier plant. The smell of basil leaves is a well-known mosquito repellent!