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latin name: ocimum americanum
zone: Z10
type: annual
light: full sun
height: 12-18” (30-45 cm)
description: Bushy tender annual with thin, narrowly ovate, bright-green leaves. Leaves have a zesty lime aroma. Adds a unique citrus flair to fish and salads. Wonderful lime-scented version of lemon basil from Thailand. Leaves are great for flavoring any dish where a hint citrus flavour is desired along with the flavour of basil.
harvest: Pick leaves throughout the growing season to use fresh or dry. Cut off flower heads to encourage continued new growth throughout the summer. Never harvest more than 1/3 of the plant at a time. Also, the more you harvest, the more your plant will produce.
culinary notes: Leaves are used with fish and chicken, and in herb vinegars. This herb also makes a delightful summer ice tea drink.
extra tip: In our northern climate basil is very sensitive to over watering and colder nights. It is best potted in pots which can be moved indoors during late spring when the night temperatures are still below 10 degrees Celsius. Basil can be planted in the gardens once the night temperatures rise above 10 degrees Celsius.
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