Basil: A Regal Patron of the Herbaceous Realm

Basil: A Regal Patron of the Herbaceous Realm

Basking in the light of adulation among the hierarchy of herbs, the plant known by the botanists as Ocimum basilicum, or sweet basil as it is belovedly known among culinary aficionados, conspicuously adorns the crown as the undisputed monarch of herbs. Endowed with an enchanting term as the 'King of Herbs,' the realm of basil seamlessly transcends the constraints of indoor planters and the boundless outdoors, affording versatility in its cultivation.

Behold the quintessence of aesthetic elegance mirrored in sweet basil—with its inch-long, dark green leaves exhibiting an exquisite contour of the oblong point. The foliage, a symbol of the plant's vitality, imparts an intoxicating scent, a harmonious marriage of clove and pepper that tantalizes the olfactory senses and dances delightfully on the taste buds.

Regarded as a testament to compact grandeur, sweet basil grows comfortably to a foot or above indoors. It paints a picturesque portrait of a robust, bushy, small plant that lends an understated flair of elegance to its dwelling. Amongst its peerage, the 'Dark Opal' variety sports a majestic purple hue, offering an attractive option for an indoor plant. Its function is twofold—it adds a dash of color to indoor settings while also serving as a noteworthy contributor to gastronomic creativity. To admonish the plant from blooming and thus prevent it from proceeding to seed, a mere pinching out of the plant tops will suffice. This simple action encourages their transformation into compact little bushes that provide a feast for the eyes and the palate.

Being an annual, basil grows into a thriving plant ranging between 12 – 24 inches (30 – 60 cm) in height, relative to the variety. A handful of cultivation requirements must be fulfilled to ensure a flourishing bounty of this herb: an abundance of sunlight; soil that is light, well-drained and enriched with nutrients, boasting a slight acidic undertone; and a frequent watering schedule that steers clear of waterlogging. Basil possesses an aversion to the cold, which it manifests by withholding its growth. To ensure a prolonged season of leaf production, it is advised to pinch off flower stalks promptly.

Basil lends itself kindly to sowing from seeds or to being relocated indoors during the twilight of the growing season. If choosing to bring basil indoors, the hardiest plants present the optimal candidates for this transition. Protect these selected connoisseurs from the initial frost by gently excavating them from their garden sanctuaries and repotting them in refreshing, nutrient-rich potting soil. The same strategy applies for basil meticulously grown in outdoor pots. All plants should be meticulously inspected for pesky intruders (insects), and if confronted with such a situation, a simple spray composed of soap and water will alleviate this inconvenience.

Relocated basil plants should be eased into their indoor surroundings by shielding them from direct sunlight for about a week, gradually acclimatizing them to the less abundant indoor light conditions. Once indoors, make certain the plants are provided with the necessary conditions conducive to their growth and prosperity.

To sustain its health and flavourful disposition, basil requires no less than five hours of sunlight daily. If growing basil on the windowsill, regular rotations are advised, ensuring equal exposure to sunlight for all sides. Avoid the chilling touch of cold glass on the basil leaves due to its cold intolerance. In winter, basil thrives splendidly under the benevolent glow of fluorescent lights. Simply hang the lights at a mere 6-inch (15 cm) distance from the plants, brightening their world for approximately 14 hours a day.

The basil family is blessed with an impressive diversity of cultivars. Two varieties particularly stand out from the crowd: the O. basilicum 'Dark Opal'—a uniquely applauded herb, recipient of the All American Award of Excellence, and holding equal culinary merit as sweet basil; and the O. basilicum 'Citriodorum'—a worthy contender with a strong lemon fragrance, a delightful accompaniment for tea and an excellent companion for chicken and fish.

In the garden, basil exhibits an uncanny companionship with tomatoes. This pairing not only helps deter both insects and disease but also repels undesirable attention from flies and mosquitoes. In the kitchen, let your imagination run wild with the versatile use of basil in tomato dishes (both raw and cooked), pesto, sauces, salad dressings, an assortment of soups, fish dishes, mushroom dishes, egg, and rice dishes. Mix it up with other herbs, use it in omelettes, pasta dishes, and with vegetables ranging from carrots and eggplant to cabbage, squash, and zucchini.

Infuse fresh leaves into salads, and introduce them to vinegar and extra virgin olive oil for an elevated flavour profile. Basil can be savoured fresh, frozen, or dried, catering to a variety of culinary preferences. Exercise modest restraint when using basil, owing to its unique attribute—it is one of the rare herbs whose flavour profile escalates upon heating.

We cordially extend an invitation for you to experience the regal charm and unmatched quality of the 'King of Herbs' in your culinary adventures with us in the exclusive world of our brand. Happy cultivating and bon appétit!