Also known as Basil · Brush-Leaf-Tea · Hương Nhu Tía
Ocimum tenuiflorum, or Holy Basil, is an aromatic perennial herb valued for its medicinal and culinary uses. It features green to purplish leaves and small flowers, thriv
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full sun to partial shade, at least 6 hours of direct sun.
80% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged.
70% intensity
Well-draining, fertile, loamy soil with a pH of 6.0-7.5.
50% intensity
Warm temperatures, sensitive to frost (20-30 °C).
80% intensity
Outdoor, Indoor, Greenhouse
50% intensity
Light feeding during active growing season.
50% intensity
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | Yes |
Holy Basil is generally considered non-toxic to humans and pets, and its leaves are widely consumed for culinary and medicinal purposes.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Holy Basil needs consistent moisture, especially during warm periods. Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry, ensuring good drainage to prevent root rot.
Reduce frequency slightly in cooler months or if grown indoors. Avoid overhead watering to minimize fungal issues.
Holy Basil is easily propagated from seeds or stem cuttings. Sow seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost or directly outdoors after all danger of frost has passed.
Cuttings root readily in water or moist potting mix within a few weeks, especially with warmth and humidity.
Repot young plants into slightly larger containers as they outgrow their current pot, typically annually for potted plants. Choose a pot with good drainage. Refresh the soil with a fresh, well-draining potting mix.
Handle roots gently to minimize stress.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Holy Basil (Ocimum tenuiflorum)
Where Holy Basil (Ocimum tenuiflorum) 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 tenuiflorum |
Similar in genus Ocimum
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
