Feb 22, 2019 · Characteristics of the basil Basil is a typical herbaceous plant that reaches heights of growth between 20 and 60 cm (8 and 25 inch ). In its natural environment, the plant is usually perennial, whereas for us, due to the weather conditions, it is usually only annual.

Apr 7, 2025 · Basil, annual herb of the mint family, grown for its aromatic leaves. Basil is likely native to India and is widely grown as a kitchen herb. The leaves are used fresh or dried to flavor meats, fish, salads, and sauces; basil tea is a stimulant. Learn more about basil in this article.

Basil (/ ˈ b æ z əl /, BAZ-əl; [1] US also / ˈ b eɪ z əl /, BAY-zəl; [2] Ocimum basilicum (/ ˈ ɒ s ɪ m ə m b ə ˈ z ɪ l ɪ k ə m /, OS-ih-məm bə-ZIL-ih-kəm) [3] [4]), also called great basil, is a culinary herb of the family Lamiaceae (mints). It is a tender plant, and is used in cuisines worldwide.

Sep 13, 2023 · While each species has its unique characteristics, a common trait is that both the leaves and the flowers of basil plants are edible. From the bright green sweet basil often used in pesto to the striking purple varieties, these plants can offer you a …

Feb 29, 2024 · Research has explored the pharmacological characteristics of basil, revealing its effectiveness against fungal, viral, bacterial, and protozoal infections. Basil shows potential in inhibiting the growth of carcinogenic cells and has applications in HIV treatment.

Apr 21, 2022 · Common noun: Basil, sweet basil. Scientific noun: Ocimum basilicum L. Family. Mint family – Lamiaceae. Habitat: Garden plant, native from India. Annual herb up to 1 m. Erect stems, round below, squared above. Ovate or lanceolate leaves, opposite till 5 cm long, long petiolated, darker above.

Mar 3, 2025 · Basil is a wonderful herb with aromatic leaves. This compact plant is incredibly versatile, growing outside in the ground, in containers, or on a bright kitchen windowsill. You may start seeds indoors or grow from small pots. Learn the secrets to planting, growing, and harvesting basil.

Jan 14, 2013 · Basil (Osimum basilicum) is a member of the mint family. There are several types of basil. All are edible, but have different characteristics such as plant size, leaf shape, color, and flavor profiles and are suited for different purposes.

Basil, Ocimum basilicum, is a short lived annual or perennial plant in the family Lamiaceae grown for its leaves which are used as a herb. The basil plant grows from a thick taproot and has silky green opposite (paired) oval leaves which grow to be 3–11 cm (1.2–4.3 in) long and 1–6 cm (0.4–2.4 in), branching out from the central stem.

Ocimum basilicum, commonly known as Basil or Sweet Basil, is one of the most beloved and widely used culinary herbs worldwide. Native to tropical Asia and Africa, Basil belongs to the mint family (Lamiaceae) and has been cultivated for centuries …