Also known as Basil · Camphor Basil · Red Basil
Hoary Basil (Ocimum kilimandscharicum) is a fragrant, bushy herb from Africa, known for its camphor-like scent and medicinal properties.
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 optimal growth and fragrance.
Moderate
50% intensity
Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings. Ensure good drainage.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Warm
75% intensity
Thrives in temperatures between 20-30°C. Protect from frost; it is not cold-hardy.
Outdoor
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer during the growing season.
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
Water Hoary Basil regularly, allowing the top 2-3 cm of soil to dry out between waterings. Ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.
Water more frequently during hot, dry periods and reduce watering in cooler months.
Prune Hoary Basil frequently to encourage bushier growth and prevent it from becoming leggy. Pinch back the tips of stems regularly. Remove flower stalks as they appear to direct energy into leaf production.
This also keeps the plant compact and attractive.
Propagate Hoary Basil from stem cuttings. Take 10-15 cm cuttings in spring or summer. Remove lower leaves and insert the cuttings into moist potting mix.
Keep them in a warm, bright location, and roots should form within 3-4 weeks.
Repot Hoary Basil every 1-2 years, or when the plant becomes root-bound. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one. 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 Hoary Basil (Ocimum kilimandscharicum)
Where Hoary Basil (Ocimum kilimandscharicum) 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 kilimandscharicum |
Similar in genus Ocimum
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
