Aromatic Foliage
Produces fragrant green leaves with a characteristic clove-like aroma.
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Ocimum Gratissimum, commonly known as African Basil or Clove Basil, is an aromatic herb recognized for its fragrant foliage and small flowering spikes. Its leaves have a distinctive clove-like aroma and are commonly used in traditional cooking, herb gardens, and ornamental planting. This warm-weather herb can be grown in garden beds and containers, making it a useful addition to home herb gardens.
Produces fragrant green leaves with a characteristic clove-like aroma.
Develops small flowers arranged along upright flowering spikes.
Grows well in warm conditions with suitable sunlight and well-drained soil.
Suitable for home herb gardens, garden beds, and appropriately sized containers.
| Scientific Name | Ocimum gratissimum |
| Common Name | African Basil; Clove Basil; Tree Basil |
| Plant Family | Lamiaceae |
| Seed Type | Herb Seeds |
| Growth Habit | Perennial herb or subshrub in warm climates |
| Foliage Color | Green |
| Flower Color | White to pale pink, depending on variety |
| USDA Hardiness Zones | Generally Zones 10–11; grown as an annual in colder regions |
| Planting Season | Spring to early summer after frost |
| Growing Season | Late spring through summer |
| Seed Starting | Start indoors or sow directly after frost danger has passed |
| Germination Time | Approximately 7–21 days under suitable conditions |
| Germination Temperature | Approximately 70–85°F (21–29°C) |
| Sunlight Requirements | Full sun to partial shade |
| Soil Requirements | Fertile, well-drained soil rich in organic matter |
| Watering Needs | Moderate watering; allow excess water to drain |
| Mature Plant Size | Approximately 3–6 feet tall, depending on conditions |
| Plant Spacing | Approximately 18–24 inches |
| Propagation | Seeds and stem cuttings |
Add Ocimum Gratissimum to your herb collection with its distinctive clove-scented foliage and attractive flowering spikes. Suitable for warm-weather gardens and containers, this aromatic herb brings natural fragrance and greenery to outdoor growing spaces. Provide adequate sunlight, well-drained soil, and regular care for healthy plant development.
Find helpful information about African Basil seeds, planting, aromatic leaves, and growing requirements.
Ocimum Gratissimum, also called African Basil or Clove Basil, is grown for its aromatic leaves. The foliage is traditionally used as a culinary herb and in various cultural herbal preparations. Uses vary by region and preparation.
Seeds generally take around 7–21 days to germinate under suitable warm and moist conditions. Plant development and harvest readiness depend on sunlight, soil quality, watering, and growing temperature.
African Basil is a perennial herb or subshrub in tropical and frost-free climates. In colder regions, it is commonly grown as an annual or kept in containers and moved indoors before frost.