What are the sun requirements for Ocimum basilicum 'Red Rubin'?

Ocimum basilicum 'Red Rubin' requires full sun.

How much water does Ocimum basilicum 'Red Rubin' need?

Ocimum basilicum 'Red Rubin' has moderate, consistent moisture water needs.

Annuals

Ocimum basilicum 'Red Rubin'

Red Rubin Basil

UnknownAsia

At a Glance

Typeannual

Habitcompact bushy mound

Foliagedeciduous

Height12-18 inches

Width12-18 inches

Maturity0.2 years

Key Features

Attracts Pollinators

Attracts Butterflies

Deer Resistant

Fragrant (moderate)

Container Friendly

Maintenancemoderate

Overview

Ocimum basilicum 'Red Rubin' is a striking ornamental basil cultivar renowned for its deep burgundy to dark purple foliage and compact growth habit. This aromatic annual herb typically reaches 12-18 inches in height and width, forming a dense, bushy mound of richly colored leaves. The oval to ovate leaves are glossy and deeply pigmented, ranging from dark red to nearly black-purple, creating a dramatic contrast in herb gardens and ornamental plantings. The plant produces small spikes of pink to light purple flowers that emerge from the dark foliage, though many gardeners pinch these off to maintain the plant's compact form and intense leaf coloration. Ocimum basilicum 'Red Rubin' retains the characteristic sweet basil fragrance and flavor despite its ornamental appearance, making it both beautiful and functional in culinary applications. The stems are also tinged with purple, contributing to the plant's overall dramatic appearance.

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 species has since spread throughout tropical and subtropical regions worldwide through cultivation.

Suggested Uses

Ocimum basilicum 'Red Rubin' works well as an ornamental annual in flower beds, herb gardens, and container plantings where its dark foliage provides dramatic contrast. It's excellent for culinary use in salads, garnishes, and cooking, offering traditional basil flavor with visual appeal. The plant makes an attractive border or edging plant and is perfect for themed gardens combining ornamental and edible plants.

How to Identify

Ocimum basilicum 'Red Rubin' can be identified by its distinctive deep burgundy to dark purple foliage that sets it apart from green basil varieties. The leaves are oval-shaped, glossy, and maintain their dark coloration throughout the growing season. The plant has a compact, bushy growth habit and produces characteristic basil-scented foliage when crushed. Small pink to light purple flower spikes emerge above the dark foliage, and the stems also display purple pigmentation.

Appearance

Size & Dimensions

Height1' - 1'6"

Width/Spread1' - 1'6"

Reaches mature size in approximately 0.2 years

Colors

Flower Colors

pink

purple

Foliage Colors

burgundy

purple

Bloom Information

Bloom Period

Summer

mid to late summer

Detailed Descriptions

Flower Description

pink to light purple

Foliage Description

deep burgundy to dark purple

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

60-75 days

Care & Maintenance

Care Guide

Ocimum basilicum 'Red Rubin' requires warm, well-draining soil and consistent moisture throughout the growing season. Water regularly but avoid waterlogged conditions, as basil is susceptible to root rot. Feed with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 2-3 weeks during the growing season to maintain vigorous growth and intense leaf coloration. Pinch flower buds as they appear to encourage continued leaf production and maintain the plant's compact form. The plant is sensitive to cold temperatures and should not be planted outdoors until soil temperatures reach at least 60°F.

Pruning

Pinch Ocimum basilicum 'Red Rubin' regularly to maintain its bushy shape and prevent flowering. Remove flower spikes as soon as they appear to direct energy into leaf production and maintain the intense purple coloration. Harvest leaves frequently by pinching or cutting stems just above a leaf pair to encourage branching. Regular harvesting will keep the plant productive throughout the growing season.

Maintenance Level

moderate

Container Growing

✓ Suitable for container growing

Minimum container size: 2 gallons

⚠️ Toxicity Warning

Ocimum basilicum 'Red Rubin' is generally safe for humans and is commonly used as a culinary herb. It is considered non-toxic to cats and dogs, though large quantities should be avoided as with any herb.

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 60°F

Days to Maturity

60–75 days

Plant Spacing

12 inches

Companion Planting

Good Companions

tomatoes

peppers

oregano

parsley

marigolds

Avoid Planting With

fennel

rue