Ocimum encompasses a variety of aromatic plants that can be annuals, evergreen perennials, or shrubs. These species feature opposite leaves that range from linear to broadly ovate. Their small tubular flowers, which can be white or pinkish, are arranged in whorls along a spike.

Ocimum

Ocimum 'African Blue' is a short-lived perennial that reaches a height of approximately 75 cm. Its dark green foliage has a purplish hue when young and emits a strong camphor aroma. In summer, it produces spikes of purple-pink flowers on purple stems.

Ocimum 'African Blue'

Ocimum 'Cypriot'

Ocimum 'Spice'

Ocimum americanum

Ocimum basilicum is a fragrant herb that can be classified as either a tender annual or a short-lived perennial. It typically grows to heights of 30-60 cm and spreads about 30 cm wide. The leaves are bright green, elliptical in shape, measuring roughly 5 cm in length and 2-3 cm in width. There are numerous cultivars of this plant, each differing in size and coloration. In late summer, it produces small, tubular flowers that may be white or have a hint of pink, arranged in terminal, slightly hairy spikes.

Ocimum basilicum

Ocimum basilicum 'Adi'

Ocimum basilicum 'Adriana'PBR

Ocimum basilicum 'Ajaka'PBR

Ocimum basilicum 'Ararat'

Ocimum basilicum 'Aristotle' is a versatile, bushy annual that forms a tidy, compact mound filled with small, fragrant green leaves known for their rich basil taste. This variety thrives in containers, making it an ideal choice for windowsill gardening.

Ocimum basilicum 'Aristotle'

Ocimum basilicum 'Aroma 2' is a tender annual known for its bushy growth and fragrant foliage, primarily cultivated for its culinary leaves. This robust F1 hybrid features large, vibrant green leaves and offers certain resistance to bolting and various diseases. In late summer, it may produce clusters of small tubular flowers that are white or have a hint of pink.

Ocimum basilicum 'Aroma 2'

Ocimum basilicum 'Baroness'PBR

Ocimum basilicum 'Bavires'

Ocimum basilicum 'Beaujolais'

Ocimum basilicum 'Belinda'PBR

Ocimum basilicum 'Bella'PBR

Ocimum basilicum 'Bernardo'PBR

Ocimum basilicum 'Bl6'PBR

Ocimum basilicum 'Blue Spice'

Ocimum basilicum 'Bonazza'PBR

Ocimum basilicum 'British Basil' is a robust, upright perennial typically cultivated as an annual. It features glossy, mid-green leaves that are both aromatic and edible. In the summer, this variety produces elongated spikes adorned with tubular, lilac-pink flowers. It is recognized for its ability to withstand outdoor environments, making it a viable option for warmer regions in the UK.

Ocimum basilicum 'British Basil'

Ocimum basilicum 'Chilly'

Ocimum basilicum 'Christmas' is a robust, bushy annual characterized by its sizable, shiny, aromatic leaves that offer a hint of mulled wine flavor. In the summer months, it produces abundant spikes of purple flowers. This variety thrives in containers, making it an ideal choice for limited spaces.

Ocimum basilicum 'Christmas'

Ocimum basilicum 'Cinnamon' is a perennial herb often cultivated as an annual. It features aromatic, deep green leaves accented by reddish-purple veins, delivering a distinct spicy flavor. In summer, it produces slender spikes adorned with small, tubular pink-purple flowers. This variety is appreciated for both its aesthetic appeal and culinary uses.

Ocimum basilicum 'Cinnamon'

Ocimum basilicum 'Classico' is a robust, upright cultivar characterized by its bushy growth and highly aromatic, medium-green foliage that embodies the traditional basil taste. In late summer, it produces spikes of white flowers. This variety is ideal for preparing genuine Italian recipes and thrives in pots, making it suitable for windowsills or indoor environments.

Ocimum basilicum 'Classico'

Ocimum basilicum 'Coldasil'

Ocimum basilicum 'Crimson King' PBR is a robust annual variety featuring deep purple foliage, known for its consistency and vigorous growth. The leaves are cupped and aromatic, making this plant a valuable addition to culinary creations. In late summer, it produces spikes of pink flowers.

Ocimum basilicum 'Crimson King'PBR

Ocimum basilicum 'Cuban'

Ocimum basilicum 'Dark Opal' is a robust, upright annual that showcases deep purple to nearly black aromatic leaves with a pronounced licorice taste. In the summer months, it produces clusters of small, tubular flowers in a vibrant cerise red. This variety is particularly suited for warmer gardens in the UK; in cooler climates, it can be cultivated indoors in a greenhouse or under glass.

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