Basil 'Purple'

Purple is a variety of Basil which is a member of the Ocimum family. Its botanical name is Ocimum basilicum 'Purple'. This variety is an Herb that typically grows as an Annual, which is defined as a plant that matures and completes its lifecycle over the course of a single year. Purple is known for growing with a forb-like habit to a height of approximately 45.0 cm (that's 1.46 feet in imperial).

India is believed to be where Purple originates from.

Purple Basil is normally fairly low maintenance and quite easy to grow, as long as a level of basic care is provided throughout the year. Being aware of the basic soil, sun and water preferences will result in a happier and healthier plant.

This plant info is provided by the myfolia gardener's wiki. All details about Basil 'Purple' have been kindly provided by our members.

Pinch terminal shoots to encourage branching.
Harvest leaves before flowering occurs, or they will be bitter.

Cover with finely sieved compost.

By our calculations, you should look at sowing Purple about 20 days before your last frost date.

Plant out when frost risk has passed.

By our calculations, you should look at planting out Purple about 21 days after your last frost date.

These estimates for how long Basil 'Purple' takes to sprout, grow and harvest are from real observations from real gardeners, right around the world. Start logging and journaling your observations to participate!

Folia's when to plant Basil 'Purple' estimates are relative to your last frost date. Enter your frost dates and we'll calculate your sowing and planting dates for you!

The word basil means “king” in Greek – it is believed to have grown above the spot where St. Constantine and Helen discovered the Holy Cross.

Jewish folklore says that basil adds strength while fasting.