SEEDS (50pcs/bag)
Common Names : Tree Basil, Clove Basil, African Basil, Bai Yeera, Ram Tulsi
Scientific name : Ocimum gratissimum
Family : Lamiaceae
Plant history & use :
Basil is an herb with a long history of use in both cooking and medicinal purposes. The leaves have a unique, sweet, spicy and slightly licorice-like aroma. As the name suggests, this basil plant can branch out and grow into a perennial, meter-high tree. Like the Holy Basilica , which, however, can be even higher. A clear advantage is not having to re-sow basil year after year.
The tree basil is usually used in various woks, such as the Thai dish Pad Bai Yeera with an optional protein supplement. You can also use the leaves in salad or grind them into different types of sauces. Traditionally, tea is brewed from both fresh and dried leaves from the Tree Basil.
In areas where tree basil grows naturally, a cold drink is brewed from fresh leaves that is believed to cure sunstroke and headaches.
In traditional medicinal use, the leaves have been used to treat colds and flu by clearing the respiratory tract. Also as soothing for stomach problems such as bloating.
The tree basil also acts as a natural pest control thanks to the content of natural aromatic oils and keeps both mosquitoes, flies and thrips away.
For commercial purposes, Tree Basil is also grown for the extraction of its aromatic oil, which is used in both medicines and cosmetic products.
Cultivation :
Tree basil is believed to originate from Africa. Today it grows on all the continents of the world. It is an adaptive plant that today naturally grows in both dry and humid climates, along the coast and in inland climates. Copes in both more acidic and more basic as well as heavier to lighter soils.
For optimal growth, tree basil prefers bright locations with good water availability.
Preferably use a well-drained, humus-rich soil and place in full sun, it can also handle positions in semi-shade.
Top the branches regularly for a bushier growth pattern. Also cut off budding flowers in the summer to contribute to stronger growth of the tree.
Winter indoors/frost-free. If you have access to a plant lamp, the plant can continue its growth at a good pace even during the winter months. The tree basil tolerates temperatures from 7-36 °C.
Easy to take cuttings from. Cuttings take root after about 1 month.
Well cared for plants can have a lifespan of 5-10 years.
Sowing :
Pre-cultivate indoors, alternatively sow outdoors in the summer when the soil is warm. The seeds are light-germinating - therefore cover the seeds with an extremely thin layer of soil or do not cover at all. Keep the seed moist. One way to maintain good humidity is to cover the seed with plastic provided with air holes.
Optimal germination temperature is 20-25 °C.
Tree basil seeds generally have a low germination rate, so it's a good idea to sow a larger amount of seeds. Suggest all 50 seeds in a larger pot, or in several smaller ones individual pots.
Properties :
Age: Perennial
Plant position: sun
Height: 30-100 cm
Germination time: 5-15 days