Dark Opal Basil (Ocimum basilicum) is a stunning basil variety prized for its rich purple foliage, ruffled leaf texture, and fragrant aroma. Both ornamental and edible, it’s perfect for culinary use or as a decorative accent in herb gardens, flower beds, and patio containers.
This variety produces vibrant pink to lavender flower spikes that attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. Its strong, sweet aroma and bold leaf color make it a favorite for chefs and gardeners alike. Dark Opal Basil thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, offering beauty and versatility throughout the growing season.
Features
- Premium Non-GMO Ocimum basilicum seeds
- Deep purple, glossy leaves with ruffled edges
- Dual-purpose: ornamental and culinary use
- Fragrant foliage with a sweet, aromatic scent
- Attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators
- Excellent for containers, borders, and kitchen gardens
- Heat-tolerant and easy to grow
Specifications
- Scientific Name: Ocimum basilicum
- Common Name (US): Dark Opal Basil
- Plant Type: Annual herb
- Foliage Color: Deep purple with ruffled texture
- Flower Color: Pink to lavender
- Height: 12–24 inches (30–60 cm)
- Spread: 10–18 inches (25–45 cm)
- Bloom Season: Summer through early fall
- Light Requirements: Full sun (6–8 hours daily)
- Soil Type: Well-drained, fertile soil
- Soil pH: 6.0–7.5
- Watering Needs: Regular; keep soil moist but not soggy
- Temperature Range: 70–90°F (21–32°C)
- USDA Hardiness Zones: 9–11 (annual in cooler zones)
- Days to Germination: 5–10 days
- Seed Depth: 1/4 inch (6 mm)
- Plant Spacing: 12–18 inches (30–45 cm)
- GMO Status: Non-GMO
- Fertilizer: Balanced organic compost once a month
- Pollinator Friendly: Yes
- Life Cycle: Annual
- Maintenance Level: Easy
- Harvest Time: 60–75 days
- Uses: Culinary, ornamental, and pollinator garden
Planting Guide
- When to Sow: Start indoors 4–6 weeks before the last frost or sow outdoors after frost danger has passed.
- Seed Depth: Plant seeds about 1/4 inch deep in moist, well-drained soil.
- Light Requirement: Provide full sunlight for 6–8 hours daily.
- Watering: Keep soil evenly moist but avoid overwatering.
- Transplanting: Move seedlings outdoors once weather is consistently warm.
- Maintenance: Pinch off flower buds early to encourage leaf growth.
- Harvest: Begin harvesting once plants are 6–8 inches tall; avoid removing more than one-third at a time.
