Dark Purple Opal Basil (Ocimum basilicum ‘Dark Opal’) is a striking ornamental basil variety with deep purple foliage and pink flower spikes. This non-GMO annual adds bold color contrast to containers, borders, herb gardens, and pollinator landscapes. With its intense pigment and compact growth, it provides both visual appeal and aromatic garden value throughout the warm growing season.

Features

• Deep purple ornamental foliage
• Non-GMO heirloom Ocimum basilicum ‘Dark Opal’
• Compact basil ideal for borders and containers
• Produces pink blooms that attract pollinators
• Aromatic leaves add interest in sensory gardens
• Excellent accent plant for contrast in sunny beds

Specifications

• Common Name: Dark Opal Basil, Purple Basil
• Scientific Name: Ocimum basilicum ‘Dark Opal’
• Plant Type: Annual
• USDA Zones: 4–11 (grown as annual)
• Season: Warm weather, summer growth
• Height: 12–24 inches
• Bloom Color: Pink to pale lavender
• Foliage: Deep purple, glossy leaves
• Heirloom: Yes
• GMO Status: Non-GMO
• Organic: Not certified organic
• Light Requirements: Full sun
• Soil Preference: Well-drained, fertile soil
• Water Needs: Moderate
• Growth Rate: Fast
• Days to Maturity: 60–75 days
• Heat Tolerance: Excellent
• Cold Tolerance: Poor; frost sensitive
• Plant Spacing: 10–14 inches
• Seed Longevity: 3–5 years stored dry and cool

Planting Guide 

• Sowing Method: Start indoors or direct sow after frost danger passes.
• Seed Preparation: No soaking or stratification needed.
• When to Plant:
• Indoors: 4–6 weeks before last frost
• Outdoors: After warm nighttime temperatures arrive
• Sowing Depth: 1/8 inch; press into soil lightly and cover thinly.
• Germination Time: 5–10 days in warm soil.
• Light Requirements: Full sun for richest purple color.
• Soil Conditions: Use fertile, well-drained soil; avoid heavy clay.
• Watering: Keep evenly moist during germination; reduce to moderate once established.
• Maintenance:
• Pinch stems to encourage branching
• Remove flower spikes if leafy growth is desired
• Avoid overwatering, especially in containers