A striking basil with deep burgundy-purple leaves and a mild, clove-like flavour. As ornamental as it is useful, lovely in salads and for infusing vinegars.
At a glance
- Plant type: Edible plant
- Mature size: 50 cm tall
- Aspect: full sun
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: tender
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Basil 'Purple'
Botanically, Ocimum basilicum 'Purple' is an fast-growing edible plant in the Lamiaceae family. It reaches around 50 cm tall at maturity.
Where to grow Basil 'Purple'
Basil 'Purple' suits warm-temperate, subtropical and tropical climates and grows best in full sun. It is frost tender, so protect it from hard frosts or grow it in a sheltered spot or pot.
Soil & planting
Basil 'Purple' does best in free-draining and loamy soil. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in.
Watering & feeding
Basil 'Purple' is regular, moderate watering. Feed regularly through the growing season for the best crop. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
Pruning & care
Tip-prune Basil 'Purple' in spring to maintain a dense, shapely habit. Overall it is low maintenance.
Using Basil 'Purple' in the garden
Basil 'Purple' earns its place for edible harvests and pots and courtyard containers. It is equally at home in the ground or a large pot on a balcony or courtyard.
Companion planting & design
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Basil 'Purple' with other plants that enjoy the same regular, moderate watering and warm-temperate climate. Repeat it through a border to tie the planting together and give a sense of rhythm.
Good to know
It is regarded as non-toxic and pet-safe.
Buying Basil 'Purple'
Plant Sale lists Basil 'Purple' as seed and seedlings. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment it lands.
Prefer to grow it yourself? See the Basil 'Purple' seed sowing guide for depth, timing and germination.