Characteristics:  Among our unusual basil plants that have become one of our most popular herb plants, thanks to our customers' suggestions!  Holy Basil, a wonderful medicinal herb, has a distinctive anise-seed aroma, similar to Thai Basil.  The slender leaves and hairy purplish stems and flower bracts give off a musky scent, described as having hints of cloves and mint.  This basil makes a great container plant. And, as we understand it, has a very important place in Hindu culture.  We are proud to grow this stately herb!

Tips for growing indoors:  

Many of our customers grow their Holy or Sacred Basil plants indoors.  Extra care must be taken to insure that you have success.  Follow these tips to get the most out of your basil.
 
Light:  Basil needs a lot of light.  Place in a window that will allow at least 6 hours of sunlight, preferably facing south.  Otherwise, these potted plants may need to be grown under fluorescent lights. With this type of lighting, basil plants will need about ten hours of light for healthy growth.

Fertilizer:  When growing indoors, give it a shot of organic fertilizer at half strength to maintain pH levels.
 
Water:  Basil is not tolerant of water stress; make sure pots provide adequate drainage.
 
Soil:  Well-drained, nutrient-rich soil.  A soggy soil will lead to root rot.

Basils are also potent natural pest repellents and beneficial companion plants for your home and garden!

Basil is a wonderful plant to plant near your kitchen windows or doorways, not just for its use in your favorite dishes, but because this culinary herb has terrific natural pest repellent properties! Said to effectively keep house flies and mosquitoes away, planting Basil near entryways to your home, rubbing it on your skin and clothing, and planting it around your yard and patio will help reduce the amount of unwanted summer pests. Planting it in your garden will also keep destructive pests like Thrips, white flies, and aphids away from neighboring plants. Basil blooms are also very attractive to butterflies and other useful pollinators.

Basil is said to increase the health and flavor of many vegetables like asparagus, bell peppers, cabbage and especially tomato plants when companion planted together.  For best results, do not plant Sage or Rue near your Basil, as this is said to inhibit the plant’s growth and flavor. Instead, grow Chamomile near your Basil plants to encourage its success.