Ocimum basilicum (Sweet Basil)

Ocimum basilicum, commonly known as Sweet Basil, is a wonderfully aromatic annual herb grown for its lush green leaves and unmistakable fragrance. A staple of Mediterranean cooking, its fresh leaves are perfect for homemade pesto, pasta dishes, salads, pizzas and countless summer recipes.

Easy to grow in pots, raised beds and vegetable gardens, basil thrives in warm, sunny positions and rewards regular harvesting with plenty of fresh new growth. Its small white flowers are also loved by bees and other pollinators if allowed to bloom later in the season.

Whether you're creating a kitchen garden or simply keeping a pot by the back door, Sweet Basil is an essential herb that's as beautiful as it is useful.

Plant Care

Position: full sun – loves warmth and light; best grown in a greenhouse, sunny windowsill, or sheltered outdoor spot
Height: around 30–45cm – perfect for pots, planters, or herb beds
Feeding & Watering: keep soil moist but not soggy; feed every few weeks with a balanced liquid fertiliser
Hot Tips: pinch out tips regularly to encourage bushy growth and delay flowering. Harvest leaves often for best flavour. Protect from cold and bring indoors if temperatures drop.