Basil (Ocimum basilicum): The King of Culinary Herbs

Sometimes called the king of herbs—its name derives from the Greek basileus, meaning king—basil offers fragrant, bright green leaves on plants ranging from 6 inches to 2 feet tall. An annual for all zones.

Best Culinary Varieties

'Finissino Verde A Palla' bush basil, 'Italian Pesto', 'Lettuce Leaf', 'Mammoth Sweet', 'Mrs. Burns' Lemon Basil', 'Profuma di Genova', 'Red Rubin', 'Sweet Basil'.

Growing Tip

Basil thrives when soil is warm and nighttime temperatures stay above 60°F, so don't rush spring planting. To encourage branching on young seedlings, cut stems back to just above the first set of leaves once plants have developed three pairs of leaves.

Harvest Tip

Prune often to prevent flowering. When a stem has four pairs of leaves, cut it back to just above the first set. Continue harvesting throughout summer, or stagger plantings a month apart and harvest entire plants for pesto.

Culinary Uses

Eggs, fish, marinades, meats, pastas, pestos, salads, soups, stews, and tomatoes.