Cinnamon Basil (Ocimum basilicum ‘Cinnamon’) is an aromatic basil variety known for its striking purple stems, glossy green foliage, and compact, upright form. This non-GMO annual adds ornamental color and texture to garden beds, containers, and sunny landscape borders. Purple-tinged flower spikes attract pollinators, making this basil an attractive warm-season addition to herb and pollinator gardens.
Features
- Aromatic basil variety with decorative purple stems
- Non-GMO Ocimum basilicum ‘Cinnamon’
- Compact and upright for containers and borders
- Small white to pink flower spikes attract pollinators
- Glossy foliage adds texture to warm-season gardens
- Easy to grow with strong summer vigor
Specifications
- Common Name: Cinnamon Basil
- Scientific Name: Ocimum basilicum ‘Cinnamon’
- Plant Type: Annual
- USDA Zones: 4–11 (grown as annual)
- Season: Late spring through summer
- Height: 18–30 inches
- Bloom Color: Whitish-pink blooms with purple calyx
- Foliage: Glossy green leaves, purple stems
- Heirloom: Yes
- GMO Status: Non-GMO
- Organic: Not certified organic
- Light Requirements: Full sun
- Soil Preference: Well-drained, fertile garden soil
- Water Needs: Moderate, consistent moisture
- Growth Rate: Fast
- Days to Maturity: 60–75 days
- Heat Tolerance: Very high
- Cold Tolerance: Low; frost sensitive
- Plant Spacing: 10–12 inches
- Seed Longevity: 3–5 years stored properly
Planting Guide
- Sowing Method: Start indoors or direct sow outdoors after frost.
- Seed Preparation: No stratification or soaking required.
- When to Plant:
- Indoors: 4–6 weeks before last frost
- Outdoors: After nighttime temperatures stay above 55°F
- Sowing Depth: 1/8 inch; press into soil, cover lightly.
- Germination Time: 5–10 days with warmth.
- Light Requirements: Full sun for strongest color and growth.
- Soil Conditions: Use well-draining, rich soil with organic matter.
- Watering: Keep moist during establishment; water moderately thereafter.
- Maintenance:
- Pinch tips to encourage branching
- Remove early flowers if more foliage is desired
- Avoid overwatering in containers
