Types Of Basil To Grow In Your Garden

Basil is a plant used for gastronomic and medicinal purposes. What many don’t know is that there are many varieties. Which are the most famous?

All types of basil belong to the botanical genus Ocimum . However,  the best known is common basil ( Ocimum basilicum )  which is used in cooking and medicine. Besides this species, there are others that are very interesting to grow in your garden. Find out which ones!

First of all, know that this plant prefers hot summer temperatures. Indeed, it tends to wilt at the first signs of lowering temperatures. Nonetheless, she is easy to grow and is suitable for gardens of all sizes.

Main types of basil

The plant species that belong to the Lamiaceae family are distinguished by their long history as aromatic and medicinal herbs. Among them, the most popular are those of the genus Ocimum which we all know as “basil”.

More specifically, it is estimated that there are more than 30 types of basil. Each variety is differentiated by its flavor, as well as by its color and shape. What are the most cultivated in gardens?

Common basil

Its scientific name is Ocimum basilicum and is also known as “sweet basil”. It is native to South Asia, but is cultivated all over the world. According to a study by Expert Opin Drug Metab Toxicol ,  the plant and its essential oils have bioactive components that promote health.

These components include polyphenols and flavonoids whose antioxidant action is associated with the prevention of chronic diseases. In the kitchen, it is often used to prepare pestos, marinades and salads.

Purple basil

It is derived from the common basil. Its scientific name is Ocimum basilicum var purpurascens and is characterized by its purple and original leaves. The plant does not grow much because it does not exceed half a meter in height.

An article in Food & Function indicates that this strain is rich in anthocyanins. It is also famous for its antimicrobial properties. Its uses in gastronomy are similar to those of common basil.

Purple holy basil

Holy basil is the species which receives the scientific name of Ocimum tenuiflorum . Its plant can reach a height of one meter. The leaves are purple when the plant is growing in full sun. Otherwise they are green. This basil has leaves of both colors.

According to an article published in Pharmacognosy Reviews, this variety of basil has components with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antidiabetic, antimicrobial, cardioprotective and analgesic potential. Although it is often used for tea, it is also possible to add it to other drinks like lemonades.

Fine basil

It is a type of basil used for decorative purposes. Its scientific name is Ocimum minimum and it is characterized by its small size. In Asia, it has a long history as an aromatic and medicinal herb. 

From the plant, essential oils are obtained which are very rich in eugenol or linalool. Two substances with antimicrobial potential, as explained in an article in the journal Molecules.

Genoese basil, one of the famous types in Italian cuisine

Genoese basil ( Ocimum basilicum ‘Genovese’ ) is popular in Italian cuisine. It is often found in the preparation of pasta or pizzas. It is characterized by its large curved leaves, convenient for the preparation of pestos.

The Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry reported that this type of basil contains volatile oils with pharmacological qualities. However, it should be consumed in moderation since there is not enough evidence on safe doses and their effectiveness.

Cinnamon basil

The scientific name for this basil is Ocimum basilicum ‘Cinnamon’ . It gets this name because it contains  a substance which is also present in cinnamon  and which gives it its unique aroma. The leaves are green, but some of them have red or purple tones. Although some use it for culinary purposes, it is usually only decorative.

Lemon basil

Some types of basil are hybrids. This is the case with lemon basil ( Ocimum * citriodorum ) which is  a hybrid between sweet basil and the species Ocimum americanum . The plant does not exceed half a meter in height and has white flowers.

It is generally used in Oriental, Persian and Thai cuisine due to its unique lemon aroma. We often find it in salads, soups, stews or grills.

Types of basil for your garden

There are many species of basil, almost all of which are used for culinary and medicinal purposes. They are suitable for growing in gardens, but it should be noted that basil does not tolerate too low temperatures (below 0 ° C).

In addition, it needs loose and airy floors that do not retain too much moisture. Finally, basil is ideal for any garden, as it requires little care, takes up hardly any space and stays fresh for many months.