Lime Basil (Ocimum basilicum ‘Lime’) is a compact, aromatic basil variety known for its bright green foliage and tidy upright form. This non-GMO annual thrives in warm climates and grows beautifully in patio containers, raised beds, sunny borders, and herb garden designs. Its small white flowers are highly attractive to beneficial pollinators, making it both an ornamental and productive garden plant.

Features

• Compact upright basil with bright green foliage
• Non-GMO Ocimum basilicum ‘Lime’
• Perfect for containers, herb edges, and sunny borders
• Highly aromatic leaves for sensory and ornamental gardens
• Small white flowers attract bees and beneficial insects
• Easy to grow with vigorous summer growth

Specifications

• Common Name: Lime Basil
• Scientific Name: Ocimum basilicum ‘Lime’
• Plant Type: Annual
• USDA Zones: 4–11 (grown as warm-season annual)
• Season: Spring through summer
• Height: 12–18 inches
• Foliage: Bright green aromatic leaves
• Bloom Color: White
• 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 watering
• Growth Rate: Fast
• Days to Maturity: 60–75 days
• Heat Tolerance: High once established
• Cold Tolerance: Poor; frost sensitive
• Plant Spacing: 10–12 inches
• Seed Longevity: 3–5 years stored cool and dry

Planting Guide 

• Sowing Method: Start indoors or direct sow after frost.
• Seed Preparation: No soaking or stratification required.
• When to Plant:
• Indoors: 4–6 weeks before final frost date
• Outdoors: After soil warms in spring
• Sowing Depth: 1/8 inch deep; lightly cover or press into soil.
• Germination Time: 5–10 days in warm soil.
• Light Requirements: Full sun for compact leafy growth.
• Soil Conditions: Use well-drained, nutrient-rich soil.
• Watering: Consistently moist during germination; moderate moisture afterward.
• Maintenance:
• Pinch tips to create a fuller plant
• Remove flower stems if leafy growth is preferred
• Avoid overwatering, especially in containers