10 Types of Basil

Sweet basil, commonly used in culinary practices, stands as one of the most familiar varieties. Originating from India and tropical regions of Asia, this basil type boasts elliptical leaves radiating a vibrant, light green hue and emitting a highly aromatic fragrance.

During the summer months, dainty tubular flowers, measuring around 1 centimeter in size, grace the plant, displaying shades of white or delicate pink.

This particular variety of basil finds its common use in crafting therapeutic products aimed at alleviating digestive issues. However, it also occasionally finds its way into culinary concoctions.

African basil boasts a height that can reach up to 2 meters, accompanied by leaves that carry a downy texture during their juvenile stage, much like the flowers they eventually bear.

Occasionally, these plants showcase purple stems, which in turn give rise to flowers that mirror the same hue; a contrast to the usual white blooms found when the stem retains its green shade. Despite its name, this basil type hails from tropical regions across the Old World.

This basil variety stands as a bushy plant that reaches a height of 10 to 50 centimeters. It emanates a delightful aroma, characterized by serrated green leaves adorned with a tinge of purple around a velvety stem. During the summer months, it produces floral stems in a captivating shade of pink.

This basil type holds sacred significance in India, signifying more than just its botanical attributes.

Beyond its spiritual importance, it finds use as an ornamental addition and contributes to culinary creations. However, its true prowess lies in its medicinal potential. Endowed with antibacterial, immunostimulant, anti-inflammatory, and adaptogenic properties, Holy Basil offers a range of health benefits.

Basil Pluto belongs to the family of cultivars derived from the common basil. What sets it apart is its distinct growth pattern, taking the shape of a petite and compact bush that forms a remarkably symmetrical dome, measuring around 20 centimeters in diameter.

Its leaves, while diminutive, mirror its aromatic counterparts in fragrance. This unique visual appeal lends itself well to ornamental purposes, making it a sought-after addition to gardens.

Mexican Cinnamon Basil hails from the category of basil known for its unique traits. This particular variety presents a stature ranging from 15 to 30 centimeters in height. Its defining feature lies in its distinctive cinnamon aroma, which bears a resemblance to the scent of incense.

This aromatic quality has made it a popular choice for various culinary applications, including infusions and spicing dishes. Moreover, it finds use in dried form to impart its captivating flavor.

In terms of its look, the Mexican Cinnamon Basil features flowers on purple stalks, and its leaves are somewhat serrated. Sometimes, these leaves might show hints of purple veins or even turn fully purple, contributing an interesting visual touch to its charm.

Did you know that basil is classified as an annual flowering plant? If you're curious to explore further, delve into our comprehensive article that not only defines annual flowering plants but also provides vivid examples accompanied by photos.

Neapolitan Basil stands as another member of the broader basil family, known for its unique traits. As the name implies, Neapolitan Basil originates from Naples, Italy. Its leaves are notably large, surpassing the typical dimensions of its genus, measuring up to 10 centimeters in length. These leaves carry a distinctive texture, characterized by their wrinkled appearance.

During the summer months, the plant blooms with flowers that range in color from white to lavender or even pink. Its practical use extends to gastronomy, where its generously sized leaves make it an ideal choice for crafting wraps and other culinary creations.

Contrary to its species name, this basil variation finds its origins in the Old World.

Its growth typically reaches up to half a meter in height, featuring upright stems adorned with opposing leaves spaced out along the stem. These stems are coated in trichomes, lending them a slightly furry appearance.

Renowned for its aromatic nature, this basil emits a gentle lemony fragrance.

Lemon basil emerges from a crossbreeding of lime and common basil.

The outcome is leaves exuding a potent lemon fragrance, rendering them highly valuable in culinary applications. Interestingly, in Indonesia, this particular basil variety stands as the exclusive choice for cooking purposes.

The leaves boast a relatively slender profile when compared to other basil types, and its stature ranges from 15 to 40 centimeters in height.

If the refreshing scent of lemon appeals to you, don't overlook this related article that explores 12 different plants with a lemon-like fragrance.

This particular variety boasts a notably tall growth pattern. Its leaves, characterized by their serrated edges, measure around 8 centimeters in length and carry a vivid lemon flavor, accompanied by an intriguing blend of floral, menthol, cinnamon, and, naturally, basil aromas. Originating in the United States within the garden of a woman named Burns, it aptly bears her name.

Given the complexity of its fragrance, it has found its place in various applications, from infusions to confectionery, and holds culinary utility as well.

If you have a penchant for aromatic plants, make sure not to overlook our additional article, where we delve into the realm of the 11 finest aromatic indoor plants for your home.

This basil variety serves a dual role, finding cultivation as both an ornamental addition, perfect for adorning spaces and flower beds, as well as for culinary applications. Its growth is characterized by petite and remarkably compact leaves, releasing a delightful lemony basil fragrance.

The terminal flowers, in shades of pale blue, grace the plant's structure. Reaching a height of up to 40 centimeters, it exhibits a fairly rapid growth rate, making it a versatile and dynamic addition to any setting.

If you want to read similar articles to 10 Types of Basil, we recommend you visit our Outdoor plants category.