Basil Floral Spires - Ocimum basilicum

The Floral Spires Basil is a similar variety to Thai basil. It is a highly ornamental, compact plant with pointed leaves and beautiful white flowering. The fragrance, characteristic of Thai basils, is aniseed. Its leaves remain vibrant green, without the usual purple colouration of Asian basils. Plant it for its specific aroma, for curries, broths, the whole repertoire of Thai cuisine, or to explore unexpected combinations, as well as for its aesthetic qualities.

Basil is an aromatic plant that grows 30 to 40 cm tall. Its stems are erect and branched, with a square section like most Lamiaceae. They bear oval leaves, the size and colour of which (ranging from light green to purple) vary depending on the variety. Its small flowers are white or mauve and grouped in spikes.

Basil is widely used in Mediterranean cuisine, as well as Asian cuisine. Its fresh or dried leaves are consumed in salads, marinades, or sauces (pesto) accompanying pasta, meat, or fish.

Basil flowers contain an essential oil based on eucalyptol and eugenol. Its use helps fight anxiety and infections, as it has calming and relaxing properties as an antispasmodic and antibacterial.

In the garden, Basil thrives in well-drained humus-rich soil. It particularly dislikes cold and excessive humidity. It should be planted in non-scorching sun or partial shade.

Harvest: from early summer to autumn, harvest the leaves as you need them, simply by cutting them by hand or with scissors.

Storage: it is possible to store dried leaves in airtight containers. Freezing is also an option, but your basil may lose some of its flavour.

Gardener's tip: Drought tends to cause basil to go to seed, you can pinch off the inflorescences and water it to stimulate the production of new leaves.