Basil, Opalescent (Organic)
Ocimum basilicum. 60-70 days.
Strikingly beautiful, ruffled dark purple basil. Opalescent basil is both an ornamental and a culinary herb. Refreshing flavor profile is reminiscent of the anise-clove combo of Thai basil, while preserving some sweet Genovese-adjacent and fruity aromatics. Makes a great fresh herb topping for dishes such as Vietnamese phở, or use as an elegant edible garnish. Adds a distinct flavor and beautiful pink/purple tint to marinades, salad dressings, or a simple syrup that could be amazing in the hands of the right mixologist. The glossy leaves are occasionally mottled with green and have ruffled edges that add a nice visual appeal not only in the garden but also as a summer foliage plant for bouquets. Plants grow quite large, up to 30” tall with long stems and benefit from staking if allowed to reach full size. Pollinators go crazy for it when it’s flowering and the small lavender-pink flowers contrast nicely against the dark foliage. From the botanical wizardry of Frank Morton of Wild Garden Seeds, who crossed Mrihani, an African landrace basil, and a purple basil type called Opal. We selected this F6 for more solidly dark purple foliage.
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Sow in flats indoors 6 – 8 wks before last frost. Cover seeds with 1/4” of potting mix. Germinates best when soil temp is at least 70˚F. Germination in 7-10 days, seedlings grow slowly at first. To avoid dampening off, do not over-water seedlings. Transplant to 8” spacing in all directions. Requires full sun & high fertility.
Seed Saving
Collect seeds from seed heads that are fully dry. Shell by hand, winnow or screen to clean. Some cross-pollination may occur, isolate from varieties of the same species by 1/4 mile.
Steven (verified owner) –
Where did you grow this variety? California
About 80% consistently ruffled, some are purple but flat leaves. Aroma is good, shape and form is very ornamental, haven’t try it with any food but it is a fun plant. Pair well with saber basil as shown in pic
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