Basil Seeds - Siam Queen

Basil Seeds - Siam Queen

Siam Queen Basil (Ocimum basilicum) is a vibrant and aromatic variety of basil that is highly prized for its unique flavor and striking appearance. With its spicy, sweet, and slightly peppery taste, Siam Queen Basil is perfect for enhancing a wide range of culinary dishes, from Thai-inspired curries to fresh salads and pesto. Known for its tall, upright growth habit and large, glossy green leaves, this basil variety makes a bold statement in both gardens and kitchens.

Key Features of Siam Queen Basil Seeds

Distinctive Flavor
Siam Queen Basil has a distinctive flavor profile that sets it apart from other basil varieties. It combines the sweetness of classic basil with hints of anise, clove, and pepper, making it an ideal addition to Thai and Southeast Asian dishes. It pairs beautifully with seafood, meats, rice, and noodles.

Large, Glossy Leaves
The plant produces large, vibrant green leaves with a slightly serrated edge. These glossy, aromatic leaves are perfect for harvesting and adding a fresh burst of flavor to your meals. The bold foliage also makes Siam Queen Basil an attractive plant to grow in gardens and containers.

Tall, Upright Growth Habit
Siam Queen Basil grows tall and upright, reaching heights of 18 to 24 inches, with a bushy, compact form. Its strong stems and dense foliage create a dense canopy of leaves, ideal for those who want a productive herb that can be easily harvested.

Prolonged Harvesting Period
Siam Queen Basil offers a long harvesting season, providing fresh leaves from early summer through the fall. With proper care, this basil variety can continuously produce leaves for an extended period, ensuring a steady supply of fresh basil for your culinary needs.

Benefits of Siam Queen Basil Seeds

Ideal for Culinary Use
Siam Queen Basil is perfect for home cooks and chefs alike, thanks to its bold and unique flavor. It's widely used in Thai, Vietnamese, and other Southeast Asian cuisines but also adds a distinctive kick to Italian dishes, salads, and beverages. You can use the fresh leaves in cooking or store them in oil or vinegar for later use.

Easy to Grow
Siam Queen Basil is beginner-friendly and easy to grow. Whether you're planting in a garden bed, container, or windowsill, it thrives in well-drained soil with plenty of sunlight. It’s a great choice for gardeners of all experience levels who want to grow fresh herbs at home.

Great for Container Gardening
Due to its manageable height and compact nature, Siam Queen Basil is an excellent choice for container gardening. You can grow it on patios, balconies, or windowsills, making it ideal for urban gardeners or anyone with limited space.

Attracts Pollinators
Like other basil varieties, Siam Queen Basil attracts pollinators, particularly bees and butterflies. By adding this herb to your garden, you can help support local pollination efforts while also enjoying its fragrant aroma.

How to Plant and Care for Siam Queen Basil Seeds

Starting Seeds
Sow Siam Queen Basil seeds indoors about 6-8 weeks before the last frost date. Use a well-draining seed-starting mix and sprinkle the tiny seeds lightly on top of the soil, as basil seeds need light to germinate. Keep the soil moist and warm (around 70-80°F or 21-27°C). Germination usually occurs in 7-14 days.

Transplanting Seedlings
Once seedlings have developed several sets of leaves and the danger of frost has passed, transplant them outdoors or into larger containers. Choose a location with full sun and ensure the soil is rich and well-draining. Space plants 12 to 18 inches apart to allow for adequate air circulation.

Watering
Basil thrives in consistently moist soil, but it doesn't like to sit in water. Water the plant deeply, ensuring the soil is evenly moist, but avoid overwatering or letting the plant sit in a saucer of water, as this can lead to root rot. Water at the base of the plant to keep the leaves dry and reduce the risk of fungal diseases.

Lighting
Siam Queen Basil requires full sun to thrive, so plant it in a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. If growing indoors, place the plant near a south-facing window where it will receive plenty of light. If natural light is insufficient, consider supplementing with grow lights.

Temperature
Siam Queen Basil prefers warm temperatures between 70-85°F (21-29°C). It’s sensitive to frost and cold temperatures, so wait until the weather warms up before planting it outside. Basil also dislikes drafts and cold winds, so be sure to provide it with a warm and sheltered location.

Fertilizing
Feed your basil with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. Siam Queen Basil benefits from regular feeding, but be careful not to over-fertilize, as this can lead to excessive leaf growth with fewer flavorsome leaves.

Harvesting and Propagating Siam Queen Basil

Harvesting
To harvest Siam Queen Basil, pinch off the top leaves and stems once the plant reaches a height of 6-8 inches. Harvesting regularly encourages the plant to grow more leaves, ensuring a continuous supply of fresh basil. Always use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears to avoid damaging the plant.

Propagation by Cuttings
Basil can be easily propagated by taking 4-6 inch stem cuttings just below a leaf node. Place the cuttings in a jar of water, ensuring that the leaves remain above the water line. In 1-2 weeks, roots should begin to develop, at which point you can transplant the new plant into soil.

Perfect For:

• Culinary Gardens: Perfect for gardeners who love cooking with fresh, flavorful herbs.
• Container Gardening: Great for growing in pots on patios, balconies, or windowsills.
• Pollinator-Friendly Gardens: Attracts bees and butterflies, making it a great addition to a pollinator-friendly garden.
• Herb Lovers: Ideal for those who want a unique and aromatic basil variety with a complex flavor profile.

Why Choose Siam Queen Basil Seeds?

Siam Queen Basil Seeds allow you to grow a premium, flavorful basil variety that offers a unique twist on traditional basil flavors. With its rich taste, large glossy leaves, and easy-care requirements, Siam Queen Basil is a fantastic addition to any herb garden or container garden. Whether you're an experienced cook or just getting started, this variety will provide you with a steady supply of aromatic leaves that will elevate your dishes.