Ocimum basilicum Labiatae

CULTIVATION Basil is a tender annual, bearing aromatic, oval, pointed, light-green leaves and clusters of small white flowers from late summer. It grows to a height of 20-45cm (8-18in) and prefers rich, damp soil and full sun in a sheltered position or under glass. Propagate it by sowing seeds in spring, thinning or transplanting the seedlings to 20cm (8in) apart. Harvest the leaves and flowers at any time, removing the flowers as they appear so the plants grow more leaves. It is a lovely garden, border, edging, container and conservatory herb.