Sweet Basil, African Basil, Clove Basil
ocimum gratissimum
Also known as: ["African Basil","Cloves Basil","Tree Basil"]
Overview
Aromatic herbaceous plant with clove-scented leaves, native to Africa and Asia.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","medicinal use","culinary herb","aesthetic foliage","fragrant flowers"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Genus: | Ocimum |
| Botanical Name: | Ocimum gratissimum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in warm climates, or indoor pot with bright, indirect light
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; can use a cactus or succulent mix amended with compost.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Every 4–6 weeks during the growing season; as needed to maintain shape or harvest.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; can be pruned back by one-third to encourage new growth.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sunlight to prevent scorching; place in a spot with filtered light if outdoors; indoors, position near an east or west-facing window.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; adjust light exposure seasonally.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix that doesn’t retain too much moisture; ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures between 65–85°F (18–29°C); thrives in tropical conditions; sensitive to frost.
Monitor temperature changes; protect from drafts; adjust watering based on temperature.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid over-fertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in water or soil; seeds can also be used but cuttings are more common and reliable.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting below a leaf node.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in medium or place in water.
- 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; can also use perlite or vermiculite for rooting.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting; use a rooting hormone powder or gel.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks in water; soil propagation may take slightly longer.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots or jars, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; change water regularly if using water propagation.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips to encourage branching; cut just above a leaf node or bud.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts; also prune to harvest leaves for culinary use.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp knife, gloves.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune during active growth; remove dead or yellowing leaves; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider) than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for root health and growth.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water thoroughly; ensure proper drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even saturation; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal growth; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis (yellowing leaves) in cold stress; wilting or leaf drop in extreme heat; stunted growth in temperature fluctuations.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause leaf drop; prolonged cold may lead to root damage or death.
Solution: Move plant indoors during cold spells; provide a heat source if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C); avoid drafty areas.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, or bud drop; may lead to dehydration if water needs are not met.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting or a pebble tray; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during active growth; avoid winter fertilization; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer); reduce or stop in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicOcimum gratissimum is not considered toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of toxicity in felines after exposure to this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicOcimum gratissimum is not known to be toxic to dogs. It is not associated with any significant adverse effects when ingested in small quantities.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicOcimum gratissimum, commonly known as African basil, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. It is widely used in traditional medicine and culinary practices without reported adverse effects.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Ocimum gratissimum safe for pets?
A: Yes, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: What are the culinary uses of Ocimum gratissimum?
A: It is used in traditional dishes for its clove-like flavor and in herbal teas.
Q: How should Ocimum gratissimum be cared for indoors?
A: Provide bright, indirect light, well-draining soil, and regular watering to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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