African Blue Basil
African Blue Basil
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If you've never heard of African blue basil, it's a hybrid variety created by crossing camphor basil and dark opal basil, it can be grown as a perennial in frost-free areas. The foliage is a pretty blend of dark green and purple, the plants produce loads of purplish flowers that don’t need to be removed because, unlike most basils, they don’t go to seed.
African blue basil is sterile and Pollinators love the flowers. This is a must for beekeepers, and is always buzzing with bees. Like other basil varieties, African basil likes soil amended with compost that is well drained. Plants form woody stems, this plant is frost tender and needs winter protection. The tasty leaves can be used in pesto, salads, pasta, cocktails or anywhere else you’d use basil.
ABOUT THIS PLANT
Botanic Name: Ocimum kilimandscharicum × Ocimum basilicum
Common Names:
African Blue Basil,
Lifespan: Perennial
Hardiness Zone: 8-10
Growth Structure: 2-3 ft tall bush, can be pruned smaller or taller
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Water Preference:
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Sun & Light Preference:
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CARE INSTRUCTIONS
Plant in well-draining soil. It does well when given compost and/or regular fertilizer. Flowers do not have to be pruned to extend the life of the plant, but they can be pruned for bushier growth and a cleaner look.
