Annuals

Ocimum basilicum 'Purple'

Purple Basil

UnknownAsia

At a Glance

Typeannual
Habitupright, bushy
Foliagedeciduous
Height12-24 inches
Width8-12 inches
Maturity0.25 years

Key Features

Fragrant (strong)
Container Friendly
Maintenancemoderate

Overview

Ocimum basilicum 'Purple' is an aromatic annual herb distinguished by its striking deep purple to burgundy foliage and intense, sweet-spicy fragrance. This cultivar develops dense, oval to lance-shaped leaves that emerge with purple-bronze coloring and deepen to rich purple-black as they mature. The serrated leaf margins and prominent venation are characteristic of the species, while the stems often display purple-red tinting that complements the dramatic foliage. The plant produces small, tubular white to pale pink flowers arranged in terminal spikes during the summer months. Like other basil varieties, Ocimum basilicum 'Purple' maintains the classic square stems typical of the mint family, and releases its distinctive clove-like aroma when the leaves are bruised or crushed. This ornamental and culinary herb typically reaches 12-24 inches in height with a bushy, well-branched growth habit that responds well to regular harvesting.

Native Range

Ocimum basilicum is native to tropical regions of central Africa and southeast Asia, with wild populations found from India through Southeast Asia to New Guinea. The species has been cultivated for thousands of years and has naturalized in warm climates worldwide.

Suggested Uses

Ocimum basilicum 'Purple' works well as both an ornamental and culinary plant in herb gardens, container plantings, and mixed borders. The dramatic purple foliage provides excellent contrast in garden beds and makes an attractive edible garnish. Ideal for kitchen gardens, patio containers, and window boxes where the aromatic foliage can be easily accessed for cooking. Also suitable for cutting gardens and as a companion plant in vegetable gardens.

How to Identify

Ocimum basilicum 'Purple' can be identified by its distinctive deep purple to burgundy colored leaves with serrated margins and prominent venation. The square stems typical of the mint family, combined with the intense sweet-spicy fragrance released when leaves are touched, are key identifying features. Unlike green basil varieties, this cultivar maintains consistent purple coloring throughout the growing season, and the small white to pale pink flower spikes provide additional confirmation of identity.

Appearance

Size & Dimensions

Height1' - 2'
Width/Spread8" - 1'

Reaches mature size in approximately 0.25 years

Colors

Flower Colors

white
pink

Foliage Colors

purple
burgundy

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 to pale pink

Foliage Description

deep purple to burgundy with purple-bronze new growth

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
Drainage
moist

Water & Climate

Water Needs

moderate, consistent moisture

Frost Tolerance

tender

Time to Maturity

60-90 days

Care & Maintenance

Care Guide

Ocimum basilicum 'Purple' requires warm temperatures and consistent moisture for optimal growth. Water regularly to maintain evenly moist but well-draining soil, as the plant is sensitive to both drought stress and waterlogged conditions. Apply a balanced fertilizer every 2-3 weeks during the growing season to promote vigorous leaf production. Pinch off flower buds as they appear to encourage continued leaf growth and prevent the plant from becoming bitter. Harvest leaves regularly in the morning after dew has dried for the best flavor and to encourage bushier growth.

Pruning

Prune Ocimum basilicum 'Purple' regularly by pinching or cutting stems just above leaf pairs to encourage branching and prevent flowering. Remove flower spikes immediately as they appear to maintain leaf quality and prevent the plant from going to seed. Harvest outer leaves first, working toward the center, and never remove more than one-third of the plant at once. Regular pruning every 1-2 weeks will keep the plant productive throughout the growing season.

Maintenance Level

moderate

Container Growing

✓ Suitable for container growing

⚠️ Toxicity Warning

Ocimum basilicum 'Purple' is generally safe for human consumption in culinary quantities. The plant is non-toxic to cats and dogs, though large quantities may cause mild digestive upset. Essential oils concentrated in the leaves may cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals.

Planting Guide

Planting Methods & Timing

Planting Method

both

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

8 inches

Companion Planting

Good Companions

tomatoes
peppers
oregano
parsley
marigolds

Avoid Planting With

fennel
rue
thyme