Hindi basil, Lemon basil, Hoary basil
ocimum americanum
Also known as: ["Ocimum canum var. pilosum","Ocimum pilosum"]
Overview
A fragrant herbaceous annual plant in the mint family, known for its lemon-scented leaves and culinary uses.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","culinary herb","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Genus: | Ocimum |
| Botanical Name: | Ocimum americanum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed or container in a sunny spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, but beneficial during dry periods
- Drainage: Fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Every 4–6 weeks during growing season.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth at a time.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to prevent scorching; move indoors if outdoor temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; provide shade during intense afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with some organic matter
pH: 6.0–7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); thrives in warm, humid conditions.
Avoid drafts; maintain consistent warmth; adjust watering with temperature changes.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with a balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in water or moist soil.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Place in medium.
- Keep moist.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.
Environment
Warm, humid, indirect light; protect from drafts.
Medium
Well-draining soil mix or water with occasional rooting hormone.
Hormone
Optional but can speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 2–4 weeks; establish in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, water.
Quick Tips
Use healthy parent stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; change water regularly if using water propagation.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Regular pruning encourages bushier growth and more blooms.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruners or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune in early morning; remove dead or yellowing leaves.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Move to a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter.
Method
Use fresh well-draining soil; gently tease out root ball; trim any circling roots.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; allow excess to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves (cold stress); wilting or leaf drop (heat stress).
Cold Stress
Growth slows; leaves may turn yellow or brown; risk of fungal infections.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; cover if frost is expected; reduce watering.
Hot Stress
Wilting; leaf scorch; reduced flowering; increased water demand.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; mist leaves to boost humidity.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; water before feeding; avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicOcimum americanum is not considered toxic to cats. The plant is generally safe for cats to be around and may have mild aromatic benefits. There is no significant physiological impact on cats upon exposure or ingestion in normal amounts.
⚡ Toxic If:
not typically toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicOcimum americanum is not considered toxic to dogs. The plant is generally safe for dogs to be around and may even have some mild calming effects due to its aromatic compounds. There is no significant physiological impact on dogs upon exposure or ingestion in normal amounts.
⚡ Toxic If:
not typically toxic
Humans
Slightly ToxicOcimum americanum, commonly known as American basil or lemon basil, is generally considered safe for culinary use. However, ingestion of large quantities may lead to mild gastrointestinal discomfort due to its essential oils. The physiological impact is typically limited to temporary irritation of the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Ocimum americanum the same as regular basil?
A: No, Ocimum americanum (Lemon basil) has a distinct lemon scent and flavor compared to sweet basil (Ocimum basilicum).
Q: Can I grow Lemon basil indoors?
A: Yes, it can be grown indoors with adequate sunlight and proper watering.
Q: Is Lemon basil used in cooking?
A: Yes, its lemony flavor makes it suitable for salads, teas, and various dishes.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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