Clove-Like Aroma
Produces fragrant leaves with a distinctive clove-like scent that makes this basil popular in herb gardens.
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Tulsi Vana, scientifically known as Ocimum gratissimum, is an aromatic perennial herb commonly called Vana Tulsi, African Basil, or Clove Basil. It is valued for its fragrant green foliage, small flowering spikes, and distinctive clove-like aroma. This tropical herb is commonly grown in home gardens, herb beds, medicinal plant gardens, and containers. It grows well in warm conditions with sunlight, fertile soil, and regular watering.
Produces fragrant leaves with a distinctive clove-like scent that makes this basil popular in herb gardens.
Features green, slightly textured leaves that provide ornamental and culinary interest.
Produces small flowers arranged along upright spikes, attracting pollinators to suitable garden spaces.
Develops into a branching perennial herb in warm climates and can be maintained in containers.
| Scientific Name | Ocimum gratissimum |
| Common Name | Vana Tulsi; African Basil; Clove Basil; Tree Basil |
| Plant Family | Lamiaceae |
| Plant Type | Aromatic Herb; Perennial |
| Seed Type | Herb Seeds |
| Growth Habit | Upright, branching, bushy herb or subshrub |
| Flower Color | White to pale cream |
| Foliage | Fragrant green leaves with a clove-like aroma |
| USDA Hardiness Zones | Approximately 10–11 as a perennial; grow as an annual in colder climates |
| Planting Season | Spring to early summer, after frost danger has passed |
| Seed Starting | Sow seeds on the soil surface or cover very lightly with fine soil |
| Germination Time | Approximately 7–21 days under suitable conditions |
| Germination Temperature | Approximately 70–85°F (21–29°C) |
| Sunlight | Full sun to partial shade |
| Soil Requirements | Fertile, well-drained soil with organic matter |
| Watering | Regular watering; allow excess water to drain |
| Mature Plant Height | Approximately 3–6 feet, depending on growing conditions |
| Plant Spacing | Approximately 18–24 inches |
| Blooming Period | Seasonal flowering during warm growing conditions |
| Propagation | Seeds and stem cuttings |
Tulsi Vana brings a distinctive clove-like fragrance, attractive green foliage, and flowering interest to home herb gardens. Its branching growth makes it suitable for garden beds and containers. Provide warm temperatures, adequate sunlight, and well-drained soil to encourage healthy growth and abundant aromatic foliage.
Discover useful information about Vana Tulsi identification, growing conditions, and its distinctive aromatic leaves.
Vana Tulsi (Ocimum gratissimum) and Krishna Tulsi (Ocimum tenuiflorum, also known as Ocimum sanctum) are different basil species. Vana Tulsi is generally recognized by its larger green leaves and distinctive clove-like fragrance, while Krishna Tulsi is commonly associated with darker purple-tinged stems and leaves. Their botanical identity and growing characteristics differ.
Ocimum gratissimum is called Clove Basil because its aromatic foliage has a noticeable clove-like fragrance. This characteristic aroma comes from naturally occurring essential oil compounds, including eugenol in many varieties. The leaves are traditionally used as a culinary herb and aromatic plant in different regions.
To grow African Basil from seeds, sow them on the surface of a fine, moist seed-starting mix and cover them very lightly. Maintain temperatures around 70–85°F, provide bright light, and keep the soil consistently moist. Seeds generally germinate within 7–21 days under favorable conditions. Transplant seedlings after they develop several true leaves.