Cinnamon Basil (Ocimum basilicum) is a fragrant and flavorful herb that combines the classic taste of basil with a warm, sweet cinnamon scent. Often used in a variety of culinary dishes, this variety of basil is prized for its unique flavor profile, making it a wonderful addition to both savory and sweet recipes. With 1000 high-quality seeds, this packet provides ample opportunity to grow a large crop of cinnamon basil in your garden or containers. The plant produces attractive purple flowers and vibrant green foliage, making it not only a culinary favorite but also an ornamental herb that enhances any garden setting.

Key Features:

• Distinctive Cinnamon Flavor: The leaves of Cinnamon Basil have a unique flavor that combines the traditional taste of basil with a subtle cinnamon kick, perfect for adding a distinctive twist to your culinary creations.
• Aromatic & Fragrant: The leaves release a sweet, spicy cinnamon fragrance, making this herb a delightful addition to herb gardens, containers, or indoor plant collections.
• Purple Flowers: This basil variety produces striking purple flower spikes that add visual interest to your garden, attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies.
• Culinary Versatility: Ideal for both savory and sweet dishes, Cinnamon Basil is perfect for use in salads, pesto, teas, desserts, and as a garnish.
• Low Maintenance: Cinnamon Basil is easy to grow and requires minimal care once established, making it an excellent choice for beginner gardeners.

Growing Information:

• Light: Cinnamon Basil thrives in full sun and requires at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day to grow strong, healthy plants and produce flavorful leaves.
• Soil: Prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.0). Adding organic compost will improve soil fertility and provide the necessary nutrients for healthy growth.
• Planting Tips:
  • Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost or sow them directly outdoors after the frost has passed and the soil has warmed.
  • Plant seeds 1/4 inch deep, lightly covering them with soil. Seeds require light to germinate, so avoid planting them too deep.
  • Germination typically occurs in 5-10 days at temperatures of 70-75°F (21-24°C).
  • Thin seedlings to 12-18 inches apart once they have grown large enough to handle.
  • For a continuous harvest, consider sowing seeds every few weeks during the growing season.
• Watering: Cinnamon Basil needs consistent moisture, especially during dry periods. Water regularly, but avoid waterlogging. Well-draining soil is essential to prevent root rot. Allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings.

Benefits:

• Culinary Uses: Cinnamon Basil is incredibly versatile in the kitchen. Use the leaves to add a cinnamon-like flavor to savory dishes, such as curries, soups, or stir-fries, or in sweet dishes like fruit salads, baked goods, or homemade herbal teas.
• Aromatic Appeal: The cinnamon scent is not only pleasant in the kitchen but also makes this basil an attractive plant for herb gardens, patios, and indoor spaces.
• Health Benefits: Like other types of basil, Cinnamon Basil has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties. It is often used in herbal remedies and teas to help with digestion and to reduce stress.
• Pollinator-Friendly: The plant’s purple flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, making it a valuable addition to a pollinator-friendly garden.
• Attractive in the Garden: With its vibrant green leaves and stunning purple flowers, Cinnamon Basil can also serve as a beautiful ornamental herb, adding both fragrance and visual interest to any garden or container.

Growing Zones:

• Suitable for USDA Zones 9-11, though it can be grown as an annual in colder climates. In colder regions, grow it indoors in containers or as an annual during the warmer months.

How to Use in the Garden:

• Herb Gardens: Cinnamon Basil is a perfect addition to herb gardens, where its fragrant leaves and purple flowers can be enjoyed throughout the growing season.
• Container Gardening: Ideal for growing in containers or raised beds, Cinnamon Basil can be placed on patios, balconies, or windowsills for easy access to fresh herbs.
• Companion Planting: Basil is known for its ability to repel pests, especially aphids and mosquitoes, making it an excellent companion plant for vegetables like tomatoes, peppers, and beans.
• Pollinator Gardens: Plant Cinnamon Basil in a pollinator-friendly garden to attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, supporting the health and diversity of your garden ecosystem.

Conclusion: Cinnamon Basil (Ocimum basilicum) is a fragrant, versatile, and easy-to-grow herb that brings a unique flavor to your kitchen while adding beauty to your garden. With 1000 seeds, you’ll have the chance to grow a bountiful supply of this aromatic basil, perfect for cooking, tea-making, or simply enjoying its pleasant scent. Its purple flowers and vibrant foliage make it an attractive addition to any garden or container, and its ability to attract pollinators further benefits your garden’s ecosystem. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or a beginner, Cinnamon Basil is a wonderful herb that combines practicality with beauty.