African Blue Basil

Scientific Name: Ocimum 'African Blue'

Also Known As

Basil 'African Blue'
Ornamental Basil

Plant type

perennial, herb, annual / biennial

size

H: 12"-36"
W: 12"-36"

planting zones

9b-12

More Options

African Blue Basil plant details

African Blue Basil is a broadleaf deciduous, evergreen or semi-evergreen annual / biennial or perennial herb with blue, green and purple foliage. In fall and summer purple flowers emerge. Features glossy texture. Attracts bees, beneficial insects and butterflies making it an excellent addition to pollinator gardens. Grows well with sun - mostly sun and regular water. Does well in average, rich and well-drained soil. A good option if you're seeking something heat tolerant.

CHARACTERISTICS OF African Blue Basil

Plant type: annual / biennial or perennial herb
Plant family: lamiaceae
Foliage: deciduous, evergreen or semi-evergreen blue, green and purple
Mature size: 12 IN - 36 IN - wide, 12 IN - 36 IN - tall
Flowers: purple blooms in fall and summer
Uses: container plant, culinary, edible, fragrant foliage, long-blooming, showy

GROWING CONDITIONS for African Blue Basil

USDA Zones: 9b - 12
Sun exposure: sun - mostly sun
Watering frequency: regular
Resistant to: heat
Soil needs: average, rich and well-drained

Nursery contributed plant descriptions

When I first saw ‘African Blue’ basil in bloom, I was amazed. I had never seen so many bees on one plant! A must for beekeepers and additionally the leaves make a very tasty pesto. It is very cold tolerant and the only basil that does well in the San Francisco fog. An accidental cross between a tall East African basil and ‘Dark Opal’, ‘African Blue’ grows to 1.5-2’ tall when pinched for eating and a 3’x3’ bush if left to bloom. Purple buds open to lavender flowers and the leaves may have purple speckles on the underside. It does not set seeds and thus keeps growing/blooming until frost. Pinch your plant to encourage bushiness, then plant in full sun and well amended soil. Keep moist for the best flavor.