Annuals

Ocimum basilicum 'Lemon'

Lemon Basil

LamiaceaeAsia

At a Glance

Typeannual
Habitupright bushy
Foliagedeciduous
Height12-18 inches
Width10-12 inches
Maturity0.16 years

Growing Zones

USDA Hardiness Zones

5a - 10b
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

Attracts Pollinators
Attracts Butterflies
Deer Resistant
Fragrant (strong)
Container Friendly
Maintenancemoderate

Overview

Ocimum basilicum 'Lemon' is an aromatic annual herb that combines the classic basil fragrance with a distinctive citrusy lemon scent. This compact cultivar typically reaches 12-18 inches in height and produces small, lance-shaped leaves that are bright green and slightly serrated along the edges. The leaves are notably smaller and more delicate than those of sweet basil, with a glossy surface that releases an intense lemon-basil fragrance when bruised or crushed. The plant produces small white flowers arranged in terminal spikes that appear throughout the growing season. These delicate blooms are attractive to beneficial insects but are typically pinched off to encourage continued leaf production. Ocimum basilicum 'Lemon' has a bushy, upright growth habit with multiple branching stems that create a full, rounded appearance when regularly harvested.

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 'Lemon' cultivar is a modern selection developed through breeding programs to enhance the citrus characteristics naturally present in some wild basil populations.

Suggested Uses

Ocimum basilicum 'Lemon' works well in herb gardens, container plantings, and kitchen gardens where its compact size makes it ideal for small spaces. Excellent for culinary use in teas, seafood dishes, fruit salads, and desserts where its unique lemon-basil flavor adds complexity. Popular in aromatherapy gardens and as a companion plant in vegetable gardens where it may help deter certain pests. Also suitable for indoor growing on sunny windowsills or under grow lights.

How to Identify

Ocimum basilicum 'Lemon' can be identified by its distinctive lemon-citrus scent when leaves are crushed, which sets it apart from other basil varieties. The leaves are smaller and more narrow than sweet basil, typically 1-2 inches long with a bright green color and slightly serrated margins. The stems are square in cross-section, characteristic of the mint family, and the plant produces small white flowers in terminal spikes. The overall plant has a more compact, bushy appearance compared to other basil cultivars.

Appearance

Size & Dimensions

Height1' - 1'6"
Width/Spread10" - 1'

Reaches mature size in approximately 0.16 years

Colors

Flower Colors

white

Foliage Colors

green

Bloom Information

Bloom Period

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
SummerFall
summer through early fall

Detailed Descriptions

Flower Description

white

Foliage Description

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 - 7.5(Neutral)
357912
Soil Types
loam
Drainage
well drained

Water & Climate

Water Needs

moderate

Frost Tolerance

tender

Time to Maturity

60-75 days

Care & Maintenance

Care Guide

Ocimum basilicum 'Lemon' requires warm growing conditions and should not be planted outdoors until soil temperatures reach at least 60°F and all danger of frost has passed. Plant in well-draining, fertile soil enriched with compost and provide consistent moisture without waterlogging. Water at the base of the plant to avoid wetting the foliage, which can lead to fungal issues. Feed every 2-3 weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer during the growing season. Pinch flower buds regularly to encourage continued leaf production and maintain plant vigor. Harvest leaves frequently by pinching just above leaf nodes to promote branching and bushier growth.

Pruning

Prune Ocimum basilicum 'Lemon' regularly throughout the growing season by pinching off flower buds as soon as they appear to direct energy into leaf production. Harvest leaves by cutting stems just above a pair of leaves, which will encourage new growth from the leaf nodes. Remove any yellowing or damaged leaves promptly. When harvesting for culinary use, take no more than one-third of the plant at a time to maintain plant health. Regular pruning and harvesting will keep the plant compact and productive throughout the season.

Pruning Schedule

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
summer

Maintenance Level

moderate

Container Growing

✓ Suitable for container growing

⚠️ Toxicity Warning

Ocimum basilicum 'Lemon' is generally safe for human consumption and is commonly used as a culinary herb. However, large quantities of any basil should be avoided during pregnancy due to compounds that may stimulate uterine contractions. The plant is considered safe for most pets in small amounts, but large quantities may cause digestive upset in cats and dogs. Essential oils extracted from the plant are much more concentrated and should be used with caution.

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 60°F

Days to Maturity

60–75 days

Plant Spacing

12 inches

Companion Planting

Good Companions

tomatoes
peppers
oregano
parsley
cilantro
marigolds

Avoid Planting With

fennel
rue
sage
Ocimum basilicum 'Lemon' (Lemon Basil) - Identification & Care Guide | PlantRef