Sweet Basil, Great Basil
Kingdom: Plantae; Division: Magnoliophyta; Class: Magnoliopsida; Order: Lamiales; Family: Lamiaceae; Genus: Ocimum; Species: O. basilicum · Lamiaceae (Mint family) · Simple, Deciduous/Annual
Species
Ocimum basilicum
Leaf Type
Simple, Deciduous/Annual
Family
Lamiaceae (Mint family)
Shape
Ovate to broadly elliptical with an acute tip and a cuneate base
Size
Approximately 2.5 to 3 inches in length and 1.2 to 1.5 inches in width; matches the standard range for mature culinary basil leaves.
Margin
Entire to slightly serrate; subtle, widely spaced teeth are visible along the upper edges.
Arrangement
Opposite (decussate)
Rarity
Very Common; ubiquitous in culinary gardens and grocery stores.
Color & Pattern
Vibrant medium-to-dark green; uniform coloration across the blade with no variegation; the midrib shows a slightly lighter green-yellow hue.
Venation Pattern
Pinnate and reticulate; veins are deeply impressed on the upper surface, creating a puffed or 'bullate' appearance between the veins.
Texture & Surface
Smooth (glabrous), slightly waxy or glossy with a distinctively rugose (wrinkled) texture due to the impressed veins.
Description
A bushy annual herb reaching 30–150 cm tall. The leaves are the primary attraction, known for their aromatic oils. When in bloom, it produces terminal spikes of small white or purple flowers. The stems are square-shaped, a characteristic of the mint family.
Key Features
Highly aromatic scent when crushed; square stems; opposite leaf arrangement; deeply impressed pinnate veins; bullate leaf surface.
Habitat
Warm, sunny environments; prefers well-drained, fertile soil with consistent moisture. Typically grown in kitchen gardens, containers, or tropical farm settings.
Geographic Range
Native to tropical regions from Central Africa to Southeast Asia; widely cultivated globally in temperate and tropical climates.
Condition Notes
Good overall health; shows some minor mechanical damage or insect herbivory (small holes in the center); slight tip browning; otherwise shows good turgor and color.
Interesting Facts
The name 'basil' comes from the Greek 'basilikon phuton', meaning 'kingly plant'. In some cultures, it is a symbol of love or hospitality, while in others, it is used in religious ceremonies.
Medicinal & Uses
Widely used in Mediterranean and Asian cuisines (pesto, curries). Historically used in traditional medicine to treat digestive issues and inflammation. Contains essential oils like eugenol and linalool.
Ecological Role
Flowers are highly attractive to bees and butterflies; provides nectar for pollinators. Generally has few natural pests due to its strong essential oils.
Similar Species
Ocimum tenuiflorum (Holy Basil/Tulsi) which has hairier leaves; Salvia spp. (Sage) which has more elongated, textured leaves.
Foraging Tips
Best identified by crushing a small piece of the leaf to release the unmistakable clove-and-anise scent. Best harvested in the morning when oil content is highest.
Toxicity Warning
Non-toxic to humans; generally considered safe for cats and dogs, though excessive ingestion of any plant material may cause mild GI upset.