Sweet Genovese Basil (Ocimum basilicum) - Herb Flower Seeds

Sweet Genovese Basil (Ocimum basilicum) is the classic Italian basil variety, prized for its sweet, aromatic leaves and culinary versatility. This Non-GMO Sweet Genovese Basil Seeds produces lush, green foliage and occasional purple-tinged flowers, making it perfect for herb gardens, containers, and borders.

Genovese Basil thrives in full sun, well-drained soil, and regular watering. Harvesting leaves encourages bushier growth, providing a continuous supply of fresh basil for pesto, salads, sauces, and other culinary uses. Its fragrant flowers also attract pollinators, enhancing garden biodiversity.

Features

• Aromatic sweet basil with classic Italian flavor
• Non-GMO seed quality
• Produces occasional purple-tinged flowers
• Thrives in full sun with well-drained soil
• Attracts bees and other pollinators
• Low-maintenance, fast-growing annual/perennial in warm climates
• Ideal for culinary gardens, containers, and borders
• Encourages bushy, productive growth

Specifications

• Botanical Name: Ocimum basilicum
• Common Name: Sweet Genovese Basil
• Seed Type: Non-GMO
• Plant Type: Annual herb (perennial in warm climates)
• USDA Zones: 9–11 (grow as annual in cooler zones)
• Sun Exposure: Full sun
• Soil Type: Fertile, well-drained soil
• Water Needs: Moderate; keep soil evenly moist
• Height: 12–24 inches
• Spacing: 8–12 inches
• Bloom Time: Summer
• Flower Color: Purple-tinged
• Season for Planting: Spring or early summer
• Germination Time: 7–14 days
• Germination Temperature: 70–80°F
• Sowing Method: Surface sow; lightly cover seeds
• Growth Habit: Upright, bushy
• Maintenance Level: Low
• Uses: Culinary herb gardens, containers, borders, pollinator-friendly plantings

Planting Guide

• Soil Preparation: Use fertile, well-draining soil; enrich with compost if desired.
• Sowing Time: Direct sow outdoors after frost or start indoors 4–6 weeks early.
• Seed Depth: Lightly cover seeds with 1/8 inch soil.
• Watering for Germination: Keep soil consistently moist until seedlings emerge.
• Germination Window: 7–14 days depending on temperature.
• Light Requirements: Full sun for best flavor and growth.
• Thinning: Space seedlings 8–12 inches apart.
• Watering After Establishment: Moderate; allow soil to slightly dry between watering.
• Maintenance Tips: Regularly harvest leaves to encourage bushier growth.
• Flowering Care: Flowers attract pollinators; pinch flowers to focus on leaf production.