Product description
Purple Basil is a striking culinary herb cultivated primarily for the dramatic dark purple colour and spicy anise flavour found in its glossy leaves. This aromatic taste, which is slightly sharper than sweet green basil, is released when the leaves are torn or steeped in vinegar. It is traditionally used to make beautiful pink vinegars or as a contrast garnish in caprese salads, where its colour provides a visual pop against fresh mozzarella.
This plant is typically grown as a tender annual that requires significant heat to thrive. It is extremely susceptible to cold and will collapse at the first sign of frost. For the best results and the darkest purple colouration, plant it in a location with full sun. It is not drought-tolerant and needs fertile, well-drained soil that is kept consistently moist but not soggy.
Please Note: When purchasing plants please consider that each live item is unique and may therefore differ from the images shown, which are for illustration purposes only - The plant will be supplied in a growers pot.
Purple Basil
Basil Purple
Basil Purple
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Product description
Purple Basil is a striking culinary herb cultivated primarily for the dramatic dark purple colour and spicy anise flavour found in its glossy leaves. This aromatic taste, which is slightly sharper than sweet green basil, is released when the leaves are torn or steeped in vinegar. It is traditionally used to make beautiful pink vinegars or as a contrast garnish in caprese salads, where its colour provides a visual pop against fresh mozzarella.
This plant is typically grown as a tender annual that requires significant heat to thrive. It is extremely susceptible to cold and will collapse at the first sign of frost. For the best results and the darkest purple colouration, plant it in a location with full sun. It is not drought-tolerant and needs fertile, well-drained soil that is kept consistently moist but not soggy.
Please Note: When purchasing plants please consider that each live item is unique and may therefore differ from the images shown, which are for illustration purposes only - The plant will be supplied in a growers pot.
Give your plants the best start
Garden Plant Size Guide
Plants in larger pots can be multiple years older than their smaller counterparts with more mature root systems and foliage. This makes them able to thrive as a full size plant in your garden quicker than smaller alternatives.
The most common size of pot that garden plants come in are 9cm/1L/3L/5L this is in reference to the diameter at the top of the pot.
9cm potted plants still remain the most popular cost effective option though, they just may take a little patience to allow them to grow into full maturity once planted in your garden.
Plant specs, care guide & tips
Key features
When to plant
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
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Planting and period of interest times are general guidelines and may vary based on your location and conditions. For best results, consult local gardening resources.
Instructions
Top Tip
The deep colour of Purple Basil can fade to a muddy green if the plant doesn't get enough direct sunlight. It is also excellent for steeping in white vinegar to create a vibrant pink dressing.
How to Water
Water Purple Basil at the base to avoid wetting the leaves. Consistent moisture prevents the plant from bolting (going to seed), but wet foliage encourages fungal diseases.
How to Plant
Plant Purple Basil in a greenhouse, windowsill, or a very warm, sheltered spot in the garden. It generally needs more consistent heat than standard green basil to perform well.
