Also known as Basil · Clove Basil · East Indian Basil
African Basil (Ocimum gratissimum) is a fragrant herb with culinary and medicinal uses. It features aromatic leaves and is valued for its ease of growth and pest-repellin
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full sun to partial shade
75% intensity
Prefers at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for best growth and flavor.
Regular watering
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist, allow top inch to dry out between waterings.
Well-drained, fertile soil
50% intensity
Warm
75% intensity
Thrives in temperatures between 20-30°C. Protect from frost; bring indoors if temperatures drop below 10°C.
Outdoor
50% intensity
Light feeder
25% intensity
Fertilize sparingly during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | Yes |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
African Basil prefers consistently moist soil but not waterlogged. Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry. Reduce watering frequency in cooler months to prevent root rot.
Ensure good drainage to avoid overwatering issues, especially in containers.
Regular pruning encourages bushier growth and prevents the plant from becoming leggy. Pinch back the tips of stems regularly, especially after flowering.
Prune away any dead or diseased foliage to maintain plant health and shape. Harvest leaves by snipping stems just above a leaf node.
African Basil is easily propagated from stem cuttings. Take 10-15 cm cuttings from healthy plants, remove lower leaves, and insert them into moist potting mix or water. Roots typically form within 2-4 weeks.
Once established, they can be transplanted into their final growing locations.
Repot African Basil when it becomes root-bound, usually every 1-2 years. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one with ample drainage holes. Use a well-draining potting mix.
Repotting is best done in spring before the active growing season begins.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of African Basil (Ocimum gratissimum)
Where African Basil (Ocimum gratissimum) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Ocimum |
| Species | Ocimum gratissimum |
Similar in genus Ocimum
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
