Types of Basil to Grow

Basil Varieties

There are quite a few basil varieties to choose from. The most popular types of basil are sweet basil, and Genovese basil, followed by Thai basil.

Sweet Basil
This variety is the most commonly found in groceries stores. It is a good grower and can be distinguished from Genovese by it's pointier leaves. Sweet basil is a very hardy plant and is easy to grow in most conditions. All basil loves the heat and is sensitive to cooler weather.

Genovese Basil
Produces larger leaves than the sweet variety and a similar taste. It has a much more bushy and vigorous growth. It is also a very hardy plant.

Thai Basil
Has an anise like flavour which makes it very unique among the basil types. The growth of the plant is not as vigorous as the ones mentioned about, and it is extra sensitive to cooler weather. Make sure you are well into the warm weather before starting, or moving the plants outdoors.

Purple Basil
In particular I am referring to "dark opal basil", it has a beautiful dark purple colour which gives it ornamental qualities for the garden. It's an award winning basil for it's flavour and is a very hardy grower.

Basil is great for companion planting, as it will help attract predator insects to keep other pests at bay. Also, it will help enrich the flavour of tomatoes if grown in proximity.

All the seeds can be purchased from the links above.