Holy Basil, Tulsi
ocimum tenuiflorum
Also known as: ["Tulsi","Sacred Basil","Tulasi"]
Overview
A sacred herb in Hinduism, revered for its religious and medicinal significance, with aromatic leaves and purple-tinged stems.
Benefits & Perks
["medicinal use","fragrant flowers","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Genus: | Ocimum |
| Botanical Name: | Ocimum tenuiflorum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, sunny area or outdoor garden bed in warm climates
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain moderate humidity
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with organic matter; cactus or succulent mix can work well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Every 4–6 weeks during growing season; light pruning can be done as needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to control size.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate full sun if acclimated gradually; reduce light exposure in winter.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate to full sun by gradually increasing exposure over 1–2 weeks; protect from intense midday sun to prevent scorching; place indoors near a south-facing window with sheer curtains for filtered light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct afternoon sun in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid wetting leaves to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, fertile potting mix with organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).
Use a mix with good aeration; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); thrives in warm, humid conditions; sensitive to frost.
Keep away from drafty windows in winter; use a humidifier in dry environments; avoid placing near heating/cooling vents.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; avoid over-fertilizing, which can damage roots; flush soil occasionally to remove salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in water or soil; seeds can also be used but are less common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting below a leaf node.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Place in water or moist soil.
- Keep warm and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining soil mix or water; perlite or sand can improve drainage.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks in water; soil propagation may take slightly longer.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pots or jars, plastic wrap (for humidity).
Quick Tips
Use clean tools to prevent disease; change water every few days if using water propagation; maintain humidity for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips to encourage branching; trim leggy stems to maintain compact shape.
Pruning Plan
Regular pruning encourages bushier growth and more foliage; remove spent flowers to promote continuous blooming.
Tools
Sharp pruning shears or scissors, clean gloves.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune in early morning; remove dead or diseased growth; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots outgrow the pot; beneficial for growth and health.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; trim roots if necessary; water after repotting; place in shade for a day.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water thoroughly; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency based on season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the base of the plant, ensuring even moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal growth; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis (yellowing leaves) in cold stress; wilting or leaf drop in heat stress; stunted growth in extreme temperatures.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause leaf drop; frost can damage or kill the plant.
Solution: Move indoors during cold spells; provide a heat source if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C); cover with a frost cloth if outdoors.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause wilting, leaf scorch, or flower drop; may lead to reduced essential oil production.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; mist leaves to boost humidity; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); reduce or stop in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicHoly basil is not considered toxic to cats. It is safe for feline consumption in moderate amounts.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicHoly basil is not considered toxic to dogs. It is often used in pet care products for its calming and health-promoting properties.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicOcimum tenuiflorum, commonly known as holy basil or tulsi, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. It is widely used in traditional medicine and culinary practices for its various health benefits.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Holy Basil edible?
A: Yes, Holy Basil leaves are commonly used in cooking and teas for their health benefits.
Q: Does Tulsi require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Q: Can Holy Basil be grown indoors?
A: Yes, it can be grown indoors with adequate sunlight and proper care.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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