Water
Water Ocimum americanum regularly, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Reduce watering in cooler months.
Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Also known as Basil · Bontulsi · Common Basil
American Basil (Ocimum americanum) is a fragrant annual herb with a camphoraceous aroma, often used in culinary applications and traditional medicine. It thrives in warm
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Prefers at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily for best growth and flavor.
Consistent Moisture
50% intensity
Keep soil evenly moist but not soggy. Allow top layer to dry slightly between waterings.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Warm
75% intensity
Thrives in temperatures between 18-25°C. Protect from frost and cold drafts.
Outdoor
50% intensity
Light Feeding
25% intensity
Fertilize monthly during growing season with diluted 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
Water Ocimum americanum regularly, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Reduce watering in cooler months.
Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Prune Ocimum americanum frequently to encourage bushier growth and prevent it from becoming leggy. Pinch back the tips of stems regularly, especially just above a leaf node.
Remove flower stalks as they appear to redirect energy into leaf production.
Ocimum americanum is easily propagated from seeds sown directly into pots or garden beds after the last frost. It can also be propagated from stem cuttings taken in spring or summer.
Root cuttings in water or moist potting mix.
Repot Ocimum americanum when it becomes root-bound, typically every 1-2 years. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one, ensuring it has adequate drainage holes. Use a well-draining potting mix.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of American Basil (Ocimum americanum)
Where American Basil (Ocimum americanum) 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 americanum |
Similar in genus Ocimum
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
