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What Color Is Basil?

Herbs are grown for their aroma and their ability to season foods. Some of the most popular herbs are basil, rosemary and mint. These plants can be grown outdoors as a landscape plant or in containers indoors. Basil is known for its spicy taste and is often used to season Italian foods.

Identification

There are several different types of basil plants grown for both home and commercial use. Sweet basil is has lovely foliage, making it a popular landscape plant. This herb typically measures 12 to 24 inches in length and has either purple or emerald green leaves. Sweet basil also produces tiny white flowers as it matures. Other types of basil have green leaves and produce purple or pink flowers.

Growth Requirements

Basil grows best in warm soil and should not be planted outdoors until the late spring. Placing these plants 10 to 12 inches apart will give them plenty of room to grow. Basil can be overwintered indoors when it is potted and placed in a room with bright natural light.

Uses

After harvest, basil can be dried and used as a condiment. This herb lasts up to 12 days when kept at room temperature in individual bags. Basil is an attractive landscape plant, as well. Many people enjoy the striking foliage it produces, as well as the aromatic fragrance it exudes.