PlantsHerbs & Teas
Basil
Ocimum basilicum
Zone 6a garden plant. Hardy through a Chicago winter unless the note says to pot it.
Tender summer herb that dies at frost
EasyHerbs & TeasEdible
- Light
- Full sun
- Moisture
- Medium
- Mature size
- 1–2 ft
- Spacing
- 10 in
- Bloom or harvest
- Leaves Jun–Sep
- How it spreads
- Annual
- What to buy
- Transplant or direct sow after frost.
- When to plant
- Set out after May 15. Do not rush it.
In the design
A 40°F night blackens it. Take cuttings in September if you want a windowsill plant.
If you eat it
Leaves
Wash. Flowers are edible; pinch them if you want more leaves.
Only eat what you planted and can name. This is not a foraging or medical guide.
