Water
Water consistently to keep the soil evenly moist, but not waterlogged. Allow the top centimeter of soil to dry out between waterings. Reduce watering frequency slightly during cooler months to prevent root rot.
Also known as Little Spurflower · Musk Basil · Musk-Basil
Basilicum (Basilicum polystachyon) is an aromatic herb with a minty-clove scent, often used in culinary applications and traditional medicine.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Prefers full sun
75% intensity
Can tolerate partial shade, but may grow less vigorously.
Keep soil evenly moist
75% intensity
Avoid waterlogged conditions.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Warm
75% intensity
Thrives in temperatures between 20-30°C. Protect from frost.
Outdoor
50% intensity
Light feeder
25% intensity
Fertilize monthly 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 |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water consistently to keep the soil evenly moist, but not waterlogged. Allow the top centimeter of soil to dry out between waterings. Reduce watering frequency slightly during cooler months to prevent root rot.
Prune regularly to encourage bushier growth and prevent the plant from becoming leggy. Pinch off the tips of the stems regularly, especially above a set of leaves.
This also promotes more abundant leaf production for harvesting.
Basilicum polystachyon is easily propagated from stem cuttings. Take 10-15 cm cuttings from healthy stems, remove the lower leaves, and plant them in moist potting mix or place them in water.
Roots typically form within 2-3 weeks.
Repot your plant when it becomes root-bound, typically every 1-2 years. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one, with good drainage.
Use a well-draining potting mix to ensure healthy root development.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Basilicum (Basilicum polystachyon)
Where Basilicum (Basilicum polystachyon) 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 | Basilicum |
| Species | Basilicum polystachyon |
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data