Annuals

Ocimum basilicum 'Genovese'

Genovese Basil

LamiaceaeAsia

At a Glance

Typeannual
Habitupright, bushy
Foliageannual
Height18-24 inches
Width12-18 inches

Growing Zones

USDA Hardiness Zones

4a - 10b
Zone 4a
Zone 4b
Zone 5a
Zone 5b
Zone 6a
Zone 6b
Zone 7a
Zone 7b
Zone 8a
Zone 8b
Zone 9a
Zone 9b
Zone 10a
Zone 10b
These zones indicate the coldest temperatures this plant can typically survive.
Frost Tolerancetender

Key Features

Fragrant (strong)
Container Friendly
Maintenancemoderate

Overview

Ocimum basilicum 'Genovese' is a premium culinary basil cultivar renowned for its superior flavor and aroma. This compact, bushy annual herb typically reaches 18-24 inches in height with a dense, upright growth habit. The plant produces abundant, glossy green leaves that are oval-shaped with a slightly cupped appearance and smooth margins. The leaves are notably large, measuring 2-4 inches in length, and have a rich, sweet fragrance with classic basil notes. Ocimum basilicum 'Genovese' develops small white flower spikes in summer, though these are typically pinched off to maintain leaf production and prevent the plant from becoming bitter. The stems are sturdy and square-shaped, characteristic of the mint family, with a light green color that may develop purple tinges. This cultivar is distinguished from other basil varieties by its exceptionally large leaves, intense fragrance, and sweet flavor profile that makes it the preferred choice for traditional Italian pesto.

Native Range

Ocimum basilicum is native to tropical regions of Asia, particularly India and Southeast Asia, where it has been cultivated for thousands of years. The 'Genovese' cultivar was developed in the Liguria region of Italy, specifically around Genoa, where it became the traditional basil for authentic pesto preparation.

Suggested Uses

Ocimum basilicum 'Genovese' works well in herb gardens, container plantings, and kitchen gardens where fresh herbs are desired. Excellent for culinary use, particularly in Italian cuisine and traditional pesto preparation. Suitable for indoor growing on sunny windowsills or under grow lights. Makes an attractive addition to vegetable gardens and can be interplanted with tomatoes and peppers as a companion plant.

How to Identify

Ocimum basilicum 'Genovese' can be identified by its distinctively large, glossy green leaves that measure 2-4 inches long and have a slightly cupped, oval shape with smooth margins. The leaves emit an intensely sweet, classic basil fragrance when bruised. The plant has a compact, bushy growth habit with sturdy, square stems characteristic of the mint family. Small white flower spikes appear in summer, and the overall plant size is typically more compact than other sweet basil varieties while producing notably larger individual leaves.

Appearance

Size & Dimensions

Height1'6" - 2'
Width/Spread1' - 1'6"

Colors

Flower Colors

white

Foliage Colors

green

Bloom Information

Bloom Period

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Summer
mid to late summer

Detailed Descriptions

Flower Description

white

Foliage Description

glossy bright green

Growing Conditions

Sun Requirements

Full Sun
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight

Soil Requirements

pH Range6.0 - 7.0(Neutral)
357912
Soil Types
loam
Drainage
well drained

Water & Climate

Water Needs

moderate, consistent moisture

Frost Tolerance

tender

Time to Maturity

60-90 days

Care & Maintenance

Care Guide

Ocimum basilicum 'Genovese' requires warm, well-draining soil and consistent moisture throughout the growing season. Water regularly at the base of the plant to keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged, avoiding overhead watering which can promote fungal diseases. Feed every 2-3 weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer or compost tea to promote vigorous leaf growth. Pinch flower buds as soon as they appear to maintain leaf production and prevent the plant from becoming bitter. Harvest leaves regularly by pinching stems just above a pair of leaves to encourage bushier growth and continuous production.

Pruning

Prune Ocimum basilicum 'Genovese' by regularly pinching off flower buds and stems to maintain leaf production. Harvest by cutting stems just above a pair of leaves, which encourages branching and more leaf growth. Remove any yellowing or damaged leaves promptly. For continuous harvest, never remove more than one-third of the plant at once. Pinch growing tips when plants reach 6 inches tall to promote bushy growth.

Maintenance Level

moderate

Container Growing

✓ Suitable for container growing

⚠️ Toxicity Warning

Ocimum basilicum 'Genovese' is generally safe for humans when consumed as a culinary herb in normal quantities. The plant is non-toxic to cats and dogs, though large quantities may cause mild digestive upset in pets. Essential oils in the leaves are concentrated and should not be consumed in large amounts.

Planting Guide

Planting Methods & Timing

Planting Method

transplant

Indoor Start

6 weeks before last frost

Direct Sow Timing

after last frost when soil temperature reaches 65°F

Days to Maturity

60–90 days

Plant Spacing

12 inches

Companion Planting

Good Companions

tomatoes
peppers
oregano
parsley
marigolds

Avoid Planting With

rue
fennel
cucumber