Ocimum basilicum

An assortment of three very different varieties of basil: cinnamon basil, with a spicy flavour, Giant Monstrous Mammoth basil with a pronounced aroma, and Grand Green basil, more classic but essential. This mixture is offered to you in a 3-metre (10 feet) ribbon to be planted from March to May for a harvest from June to October, as needed.

Originally from tropical regions of Asia and Africa, basil forms a plant that reaches, depending on the varieties, between 30 and 50cm (12 and 20in) in height. It has upright, ramified stems with a square section like most Lamiaceae. It is an aromatic plant whose leaves, fresh or dried, are widely used in salads, marinades, or in pesto to accompany pasta, meat, or fish.

Harvest: The harvest is done as needed.

Storage: Basil can be stored for a few days in the refrigerator, at the bottom. It can also be stored in an airtight container after drying. It freezes very well, but loses some of its aroma, as it does after drying.

Gardener's tips: Drought tends to cause basil to go to seed, so don't hesitate to pinch the inflorescences and water it to stimulate the production of new branches and leaves.