The word "basilikos" comes from the Greek and means "royal". The herb bears this name mainly because of its noble scent. However, the bushy plant is not only indispensable in Mediterranean cuisine, it is also one of the most important medicinal plants in Ayurveda, the traditional Indian art of healing. For these reasons, basil is one of the most important herbs and is therefore also indispensable in the herb spiral.

Basil should not be missing in any herb snail

origin and description

Many basil species are native to Africa and South America. Already 1000 BC the herb was cultivated in western India. It then came to Central Europe in the 12th century. In India, basil has a religious significance above all; The Indian basil (Ocinum sanctum), also known as "holy basil", is dedicated to the god Vishnu and is considered a panacea and rejuvenator, but also an aphrodisiac. The mostly annual basil grows between 20 and 70 centimeters high, depending on the variety. The decussate leaves can be very different depending on the species and variety. The white flower appears between June and September. The aromatic scent of the entire plant is typical.

Protect basil from slugs

As a rule, basil is sown, grown indoors and not planted outside until mid-May. Since it is one of the declared "favourite food" of slugs, it is only safe in the upper part of the herb spiral or in pots. Reseeding is possible until September. When sowing, make sure not to cover the seeds with soil: basil belongs to the light germs.

Location in the herb spiral

Basil needs a lot of warmth and is sensitive to waterlogging, so it needs permeable but nutrient-rich soil. It therefore belongs in the upper to middle area of the herbal spiral, in a very sunny spot. When it is dry, it must be watered regularly, because basil does not like waterlogged soil, but still likes it moist.

harvest

Just before flowering is the best time to pluck off the leaves, which should be used as fresh as possible. Basil quickly loses its aroma when dried, but can be preserved in oil or frozen.

Related species and popular varieties

Basil is roughly divided into two subspecies, and there are also a large number of very different varieties:

  • 'Big Green', 'Genoveser'
  • 'Lemon': Lemon basil with citrus aroma, goes well with fish dishes
  • 'Cinnamon': Basil flavored with cinnamon
  • 'Opal': red-leaved variety
  • Bush or dwarf basil: ornamental form 15 centimeters high
  • Tree basil (Ocinum gratissimum): wild basil from the tropics of Africa and Asia with a clove aroma and a pungent taste

tips

Plant basil, thyme, marjoram and oregano together in the herb spiral and you already have the most important herbs for Italian cuisine.

Category:

Garden design