Basil, Sacred

Most often used as tea, this variety has immune-enhancing anti-fungal, and antibacterial qualities that make it an important medicinal herb for many people around the world. Tulsi has sweet anise-flavored leaves and flowers. These plants are a good deal more resilient than other varieties of basil, allowing it to thrive under conditions that are hotter, shadier or drier than other basil can tolerate. Traditionally it has been planted at the entrances to hoomes and the scent it releases as people walk by bless the household.

Basil: Basil has a long history (more than 5000 years!!) of serving up great flavor around the world. It may have originated in India or Southern Asia but its widespread use and ease of growing has obscured its origin story. Harvest this annual herb by trimming the stems of just above a set of leaves. This will allow a new set of stems to grow below the wound.

Growing Tips: Basil loves the summer heat, but be sure to give it enough water. I like to make sure that the soil surface doesn’t dry out completely by adding a light mulch over top. In general, plant them 8 to 12 inches apart in the garden for longer lived plants that will last until the first cold nights. You can plant them a little tighter together in a pot but they just might last as long.