Thai Basil

Plant Specifications

Ocimum x citriodorum ‘Siam Queen. ‘ Tender Annual. Full Sun. Height: 18 – 24”
A distinctly flavored Basil that has a strong anise-like flavor. The leaves are more long and narrow
while the Mediterranean version is more rounded.

In the Garden

Thai basil is very sturdy and one of the easier to grow basils. It does best in the full sun and well drained soil. It makes a great addition to your vegetable or flower garden. If you plan on using this basil as a culinary herb then you need to keep the flowers trimmed back to keep the leaves from becoming bitter and to promote additional leaf growth. Otherwise, leave the flowers on the plant to add beautiful color to your garden or fresh cut arrangements.

Plant Uses

Thai basil is very popular in Vietnamese and Thai cooking. It has a licorice aroma and flavor with a little bit of spice. It is great in salads, spring rolls, sushi, soups, and stir-fry dishes. Thai basil is used often in fresh cut flower arrangements because of its’ beautiful purple or dark pink flowers.