Photos are representative and may not match your specific variety.

Thai Basil

Herb

Ocimum basilicum

Overview
Thai Basil is a distinctive Southeast Asian herb prized for its striking purple-tinged stems and narrow, dark green leaves. Reaching maturity in approximately 74 days, this heirloom variety delivers an intensely aromatic profile—a bold combination of anise-licorice sweetness with spicy, clove-like undertones that sets it apart from sweet basil. Essential in Thai and Vietnamese cuisines, it adds authentic depth to curries, stir-fries, and aromatic broths. The plant thrives in full sun to partial shade with rich, well-drained soil enriched with organic matter. Easy to moderate difficulty makes it accessible for most gardeners, though watch for common pests like aphids and Japanese beetles.
Planting
Start indoors 6-8 weeks before last frost or direct sow when soil reaches 65°F. Transplant after all frost danger passes.
Growing
Sun: partial. Water: high. Soil pH: 6–7.5. Space plants 8" apart. Germination: 5-10.
Pests & diseases
Common pests: Aphids, Japanese beetles, slugs. Common diseases: Bacterial leaf spot, downy mildew in humid conditions.