Water
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water at the base of the plant to prevent fungal diseases on the leaves. Check the soil moisture regularly and water when the top inch feels dry.
Overwatering can lead to root rot.
Also known as Basil · Basilie · Common Basil
Sweet basil (Ocimum basilicum) is an aromatic herb with fragrant leaves, widely used in culinary dishes and appreciated for its fresh, slightly sweet flavor.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
75% intensity
Prefers at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Regular
75% intensity
Maintain consistent moisture, avoid waterlogging.
Loam, Sandy, Clay
50% intensity
Warm
75% intensity
Thrives in temperatures between 20-25°C; sensitive to frost.
Light
25% intensity
Feed sparingly 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 |
Non-toxic to humans and common pets.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water at the base of the plant to prevent fungal diseases on the leaves. Check the soil moisture regularly and water when the top inch feels dry.
Overwatering can lead to root rot.
Pinch back the tips of the stems regularly to encourage bushier growth and prevent flowering. Remove any yellowing or diseased leaves promptly.
Pruning also helps maintain a compact shape and promotes more leaf production.
Sweet basil is easily propagated from stem cuttings. Take 4-6 inch cuttings, remove lower leaves, and place them in water or moist potting mix. Roots typically form within 2-3 weeks, after which they can be transplanted.
Repot young plants into larger containers as they outgrow their current pots, usually in the spring. Ensure the new pot has drainage holes. Use a well-draining potting mix amended with compost for optimal growth.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Sweet Basil (Ocimum basilicum)
Where Sweet Basil (Ocimum basilicum) 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 basilicum |
Similar in genus Ocimum
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
