It is not at all easy to pick your favorite variety from the multi-faceted basil genus. The following overview presents recommended species and varieties for cultivation in beds and on the balcony.

Classics with Mediterranean charm

Of the more than 60 wild species, we are particularly impressed by the varieties of Ocimum basilicum. This species impresses with a variety of culture forms, which are characterized by individual leaf and growth forms as well as a unique aroma:

  • Genoveser: the undeniable top dog among basil varieties, with large, juicy green leaves
  • Rosso: scores with dark red foliage and an intense taste
  • a Foglia di lattuga: the Neapolitan classic with conspicuous, wavy leaves
  • Large green: develops a powerful habit and is also weather-resistant
  • Dark Opal: a real eye-catcher in every garden with purple leaves and a pink flower

With their delicate leaves, the classics thrive in the garden and on the balcony, preferably as an annual. If you want to preserve the incomparable aroma, you should pickle, freeze or dry them freshly harvested.

Trendy and perennial - Thai basil

The following species and varieties are in a league of their own within the large basil family. Those who are not familiar throw these species into a pot under the name Thai basil. They do have some notable differences:

  • Horapa: also known as 'sweet basil', convinces with a taste reminiscent of aniseed and liquorice
  • Bai Maenglak: aptly referred to as 'lemon basil', enhances fish, drinks and soups, freezes well
  • Bai Kaprao: slightly warmed, it tastes of cloves and cinnamon, ideal for perennial cultivation

Basil from distant lands

The cosmopolitan gardeners will be interested in the following basil species from around the world:

  • Russian shrub basil 'Gorbachev': white flowers on decorative red stems and a delicate taste
  • Cuban shrub basil 'Cuba': with small, green leaves and little urge to flower
  • Variegated white shrub basil 'Pesto Perpetuo': creates an enchanting eye-catcher with variegated foliage
  • Red-green shrub basil 'African Blue': like all African basil species, ideally suited as a perennial plant

tips and tricks

With the basil tree (ocimum gratissimum), a species immigrated to Europe from India that can reach a height of up to 150 centimeters. Its leaves exude a pleasant clove aroma and are so robust at the same time that overwintering seems quite realistic.

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Vegetable garden