Varieties Of Basil To Grow In Your Garden

All types of basil belong to the botanical genus Ocimum. The most famous, however, is common basil (Ocimum basilicum), which has both culinary and medicinal purposes. There are also other interesting types of basil that you can grow in your garden. Do you want to know more? Then keep reading!

First of all, keep in mind that this plant prefers warm summer temperatures. It even tends to wilt quickly at the first sign of low temperatures. Still, it is easy to grow and suitable for gardens of any size. We’ll tell you more about it in the paragraphs below.

The main types of basil

The plant species belonging to the Lamiaceae family have a long history as aromatic and medicinal herbs. Of these, the most popular are those of the genus Ocimum which we all know as ‘basil’.

In particular, according to estimates, there are more than 30 varieties of basil. Each variety differs in taste, color and shape. So what are the most popular types of basil to grow in your garden? We list them for you and tell you something about them.

Ordinary basil

Its scientific name is Ocimum basilicum and it is also known as ‘sweet basil’. Although it is native to South Asia, it grows all over the world. According to a review by Expert Opin Drug Metab Toxicol, the plant and its essential oils contain bioactive compounds that promote health.

These include polyphenols and flavonoids, whose antioxidant activity is associated with the prevention of chronic diseases. In the kitchen, it is a popular ingredient for preparing pestos, marinades and salads.

purple basil

This is one of the types of basil that you can grow in your garden. It is a derivative of common basil. The scientific name is Ocimum basilicum var. purpurascens and stands out for its characteristic purple leaves. The plant does not grow very high, no more than about half a meter.

A publication in Food & Function states that anthocyanins are abundant in this variety. It is also known for its antimicrobial properties. Its use in gastronomy is similar to that of common basil.

holy basil

Holy basil has the scientific name Ocimum tenuiflorum. Also known as tulsi, this plant can grow up to one meter in height. The leaves are purple if the plant grows in full sun, otherwise they are green. The leaves even have both colors.

According to a review published in Pharmacognosy Reviews, this basil variety has compounds with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antidiabetic, antimicrobial, cardio-protective and analgesic properties. Although it is often used in tea, you can also add it to other drinks, such as lemonade.

Bush basil

This type of basil is used for decorative purposes. As the scientific name Ocimum minimum suggests, this basic species is notable for its small size. In Asia, it has a long history as an aromatic and medicinal herb. In addition, these applications have spread to other parts of the world.

The plant produces essential oils that contain an abundance of eugenol and linalool, two compounds with antimicrobial potential, according to an article in the journal Molecules.

basil genovese

Basil genovese (Ocimum basilicum ‘Genovese’) is popular for its uses in Italian cooking. It is a common ingredient in the preparation of pasta and pizza. It differs from other varieties by its large curved leaves that are often used in the preparation of pesto.

The Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry reported that this type of basil contains volatile oils with pharmacological properties. However, use them only in moderation. Evidence of their safe dosing and efficacy is still lacking.

Cinnamon basil

The scientific name of this basil is Ocimum basilicum. Its name is due to the fact that it contains a substance also present in cinnamon, which gives it its specific aroma.

The leaves are green, but some have reddish or purple hues. Although a number of people use it for culinary purposes, it is mostly just decorative.

lemon basil

A number of basil species are also hybrids. This is the case with lemon basil (Ocimum × citriodorum), a cross between sweet basil and the species Ocimum americanum. The plant is less than half a meter high and has white flowers.

It is mostly used in Arab, Persian and Thai cuisines because of its specific lemon scent. It is a common ingredient in recipes for salads, soups, stews or grilled dishes.

Types of Basil You Can Grow in Your Garden

There are many varieties of basil, but almost all of them are used for medicinal and culinary purposes. They are suitable for growing in gardens, but keep in mind that they cannot tolerate very low temperatures (below freezing).

Basil needs a loose and airy soil that does not retain too much moisture. However, they are ideal for any garden as they require little care, take up almost no space and stay fresh for months.