Plant encyclopedia›Ocimum basilicum [Lettuce Leaf]

Ocimum basilicum [Lettuce Leaf]

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An unusual annual herb, known as the large leaved basil, with frilly edged leaves reaching up to 12cm long and having a strong basil flavour. Short spikes of white flowers appear in late summer. Excellent for container growing and adding interest to traditional herb displays

Scientific classification

Species: Ocimum basilicum [Lettuce Leaf] (Ocimum basilicum [Lettuce Leaf])
Genus: Ocimum
Family: Lamiaceae

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Toxicity: Annual Biennial · Herbs - Culinary
Plant type: 0.1-0.5 metres
Height: 0.1-0.5 metres
Spread: Deciduous
Foliage: Bushy
Habit: Spring · Summer · Autumn
Season of interest: Full sun
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Ideal temperature

Ocimum basilicum [Lettuce Leaf] pictures

Distribution of Ocimum basilicum [Lettuce Leaf]

Distribution map

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Culture

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Toxicity

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Quick identification of Ocimum basilicum [Lettuce Leaf]

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Ocimum basilicum [Lettuce Leaf] care guide

Keep soil consistently moist for steady leafy growth without drought stress
Watering: Full sun
Sunlight: Information to be completed
Ideal temperature

Watering

Keep soil consistently moist for steady leafy growth without drought stress

Fertilizing

Nitrogen-rich vegetable feed every two to three weeks in active growth

Pruning

Pinch out flower heads as they appear to encourage continued leaf growth. If left to flower, cut back after flowering

Propagation

Propagate by seed in gentle heat in spring under glass or indoors, or sow in-situ in summer. See sowing seeds indoors for further advice

Growing

Grow as an annual, indoors, in moist but well drained soil in a sheltered position in full sun. Can move outdoors in summer. Best grown in a container. See basil cultivation for more information

More growing and care information →