Basil Seeds - Purple
Estimated delivery between February 04 and February 07.
Basil Seeds - Purple
Purple Basil (Ocimum basilicum ‘Purple Ruffles’ or ‘Dark Opal’) offers a stunning twist on the classic basil plant with its deep purple leaves and bold flavor. Known for its striking color and aromatic scent, this variety of basil is a favorite among gardeners and chefs alike. Perfect for adding both beauty and a unique flavor profile to your herb garden, Purple Basil is as versatile as it is visually appealing. Grow your own Purple Basil from seed and enjoy its vibrant hues and aromatic qualities in your culinary creations.
Key Features of Purple Basil Seeds
Vibrant Purple Foliage
Purple Basil stands out with its deep purple to burgundy-colored leaves, which create a dramatic contrast in the garden. The unique color is not only visually stunning but also adds a rich, bold element to herb gardens, borders, or container plantings.
Aromatic, Bold Flavor
Like its green counterpart, Purple Basil has a fragrant, aromatic flavor that combines hints of clove and spice. Its taste is slightly milder than sweet basil, making it ideal for infusing oils, dressings, sauces, and even salads. The leaves retain their rich flavor whether used fresh or dried.
Compact Growth Habit
Purple Basil plants typically grow to about 12–24 inches tall, making them a great choice for both garden beds and container gardens. Their compact size makes them suitable for small spaces such as windowsills, patios, or balconies, allowing you to enjoy fresh herbs without needing a large garden.
Attractive Flowers
Purple Basil produces small, pale pink to purple flowers in summer, adding an additional layer of beauty to the plant. These flowers are not only ornamental but also attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, enhancing the biodiversity of your garden.
Benefits of Purple Basil Seeds
Rich in Antioxidants
Purple Basil is packed with antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins, the same compounds that give it its vibrant color. These antioxidants contribute to a healthy immune system and can help protect the body from oxidative stress.
Perfect for Culinary Use
Purple Basil is a fantastic herb for adding depth to your cooking. Its slightly spicy and clove-like flavor pairs well with Mediterranean, Thai, and Italian dishes, as well as being a wonderful garnish for cocktails or salads.
Easy to Grow
Whether you're a novice gardener or an experienced plant lover, Purple Basil is easy to grow from seed. It requires minimal care, making it an ideal choice for beginners, while still offering plenty of rewards for more seasoned gardeners. With just a little attention, you'll have a flourishing plant ready for harvest.
Versatile in the Kitchen
The flavor of Purple Basil can be used in a variety of dishes, from pesto to pasta, grilled meats, and vegetable dishes. It’s also a popular addition to fresh salads, adding color and flavor to your meals. The leaves can also be infused into oils or vinegars to create flavorful culinary ingredients.
How to Plant and Care for Purple Basil Seeds
Starting Seeds
To start Purple Basil seeds, sow them indoors about 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost date. Plant the seeds in a shallow tray or pot with a well-draining seed-starting mix. Sprinkle the seeds lightly on top of the soil and cover them with a thin layer of soil, as they need light to germinate. Keep the soil consistently moist and place the tray in a warm location (around 70-75°F or 21-24°C) with plenty of indirect sunlight. Germination typically occurs within 7–10 days.
Transplanting Seedlings
Once the seedlings have grown large enough to handle and the danger of frost has passed, transplant them into the garden or larger pots. Choose a location with well-draining soil and full sun for best growth. Space the plants about 8-12 inches apart to allow room for their leaves to grow. If growing in containers, choose a pot that is at least 12 inches in diameter with good drainage.
Watering
Purple Basil prefers evenly moist soil, so water regularly, especially during dry spells. However, ensure the soil has good drainage to avoid root rot. Avoid overwatering, as basil is susceptible to fungal infections in overly wet soil. Water at the base of the plant to keep the leaves dry, as moisture on the leaves can encourage mildew growth.
Lighting
Basil thrives in full sunlight. Ensure that Purple Basil gets at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day. If growing indoors, place the plant near a sunny window or under grow lights to ensure healthy growth. Insufficient light can result in leggy growth and less vibrant foliage.
Temperature
Purple Basil prefers warm temperatures and will thrive in environments between 70-85°F (21-29°C). Protect the plant from frost and cold temperatures, as basil is highly sensitive to chilly conditions.
Fertilizing
Fertilize your Purple Basil plant with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can result in excessive leaf growth at the expense of flavor. Organic compost or a slow-release fertilizer is also a great option for feeding your basil.
Harvesting and Propagating Purple Basil
Harvesting Leaves
To harvest Purple Basil, simply pinch off the leaves or cut the stems as needed. Harvesting regularly encourages new growth and keeps the plant bushy. It’s best to harvest in the morning after the dew has dried for the best flavor.
Propagating by Cuttings
You can propagate Purple Basil easily by taking stem cuttings. Snip a healthy stem just below a node, remove the lower leaves, and place the cutting in a glass of water or directly into a pot with soil. After a few weeks, the cutting will develop roots and can be transplanted.
Seed Saving
If you want to save seeds for future planting, allow the flowers to mature and produce seeds. Once the seed heads have dried, collect the seeds and store them in a cool, dry place until the next growing season.
Perfect For:
- Herb Gardens: Adds color and flavor to any herb garden, whether in the ground or containers.
- Windowsills: Thrives indoors, making it ideal for growing on a sunny windowsill.
- Culinary Use: A perfect herb for chefs and home cooks, adding a unique twist to your favorite dishes.
- Pollinator Gardens: Attracts bees and butterflies, benefiting local ecosystems.
Why Choose Purple Basil Seeds?
Purple Basil Seeds offer a unique and visually striking addition to your garden or kitchen. With their bold color, aromatic flavor, and culinary versatility, they are perfect for anyone looking to grow an eye-catching and useful herb. Whether you’re an experienced gardener or just starting out, Purple Basil is easy to grow and maintain, offering delicious rewards for your efforts. Plus, its vibrant foliage can be enjoyed fresh or dried, making it a wonderful herb to cultivate all year round.
Dharaseeds
Basil Seeds - Purple
Estimated delivery between February 04 and February 07.
Basil Seeds - Purple
Purple Basil (Ocimum basilicum ‘Purple Ruffles’ or ‘Dark Opal’) offers a stunning twist on the classic basil plant with its deep purple leaves and bold flavor. Known for its striking color and aromatic scent, this variety of basil is a favorite among gardeners and chefs alike. Perfect for adding both beauty and a unique flavor profile to your herb garden, Purple Basil is as versatile as it is visually appealing. Grow your own Purple Basil from seed and enjoy its vibrant hues and aromatic qualities in your culinary creations.
Key Features of Purple Basil Seeds
Vibrant Purple Foliage
Purple Basil stands out with its deep purple to burgundy-colored leaves, which create a dramatic contrast in the garden. The unique color is not only visually stunning but also adds a rich, bold element to herb gardens, borders, or container plantings.
Aromatic, Bold Flavor
Like its green counterpart, Purple Basil has a fragrant, aromatic flavor that combines hints of clove and spice. Its taste is slightly milder than sweet basil, making it ideal for infusing oils, dressings, sauces, and even salads. The leaves retain their rich flavor whether used fresh or dried.
Compact Growth Habit
Purple Basil plants typically grow to about 12–24 inches tall, making them a great choice for both garden beds and container gardens. Their compact size makes them suitable for small spaces such as windowsills, patios, or balconies, allowing you to enjoy fresh herbs without needing a large garden.
Attractive Flowers
Purple Basil produces small, pale pink to purple flowers in summer, adding an additional layer of beauty to the plant. These flowers are not only ornamental but also attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, enhancing the biodiversity of your garden.
Benefits of Purple Basil Seeds
Rich in Antioxidants
Purple Basil is packed with antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins, the same compounds that give it its vibrant color. These antioxidants contribute to a healthy immune system and can help protect the body from oxidative stress.
Perfect for Culinary Use
Purple Basil is a fantastic herb for adding depth to your cooking. Its slightly spicy and clove-like flavor pairs well with Mediterranean, Thai, and Italian dishes, as well as being a wonderful garnish for cocktails or salads.
Easy to Grow
Whether you're a novice gardener or an experienced plant lover, Purple Basil is easy to grow from seed. It requires minimal care, making it an ideal choice for beginners, while still offering plenty of rewards for more seasoned gardeners. With just a little attention, you'll have a flourishing plant ready for harvest.
Versatile in the Kitchen
The flavor of Purple Basil can be used in a variety of dishes, from pesto to pasta, grilled meats, and vegetable dishes. It’s also a popular addition to fresh salads, adding color and flavor to your meals. The leaves can also be infused into oils or vinegars to create flavorful culinary ingredients.
How to Plant and Care for Purple Basil Seeds
Starting Seeds
To start Purple Basil seeds, sow them indoors about 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost date. Plant the seeds in a shallow tray or pot with a well-draining seed-starting mix. Sprinkle the seeds lightly on top of the soil and cover them with a thin layer of soil, as they need light to germinate. Keep the soil consistently moist and place the tray in a warm location (around 70-75°F or 21-24°C) with plenty of indirect sunlight. Germination typically occurs within 7–10 days.
Transplanting Seedlings
Once the seedlings have grown large enough to handle and the danger of frost has passed, transplant them into the garden or larger pots. Choose a location with well-draining soil and full sun for best growth. Space the plants about 8-12 inches apart to allow room for their leaves to grow. If growing in containers, choose a pot that is at least 12 inches in diameter with good drainage.
Watering
Purple Basil prefers evenly moist soil, so water regularly, especially during dry spells. However, ensure the soil has good drainage to avoid root rot. Avoid overwatering, as basil is susceptible to fungal infections in overly wet soil. Water at the base of the plant to keep the leaves dry, as moisture on the leaves can encourage mildew growth.
Lighting
Basil thrives in full sunlight. Ensure that Purple Basil gets at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day. If growing indoors, place the plant near a sunny window or under grow lights to ensure healthy growth. Insufficient light can result in leggy growth and less vibrant foliage.
Temperature
Purple Basil prefers warm temperatures and will thrive in environments between 70-85°F (21-29°C). Protect the plant from frost and cold temperatures, as basil is highly sensitive to chilly conditions.
Fertilizing
Fertilize your Purple Basil plant with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can result in excessive leaf growth at the expense of flavor. Organic compost or a slow-release fertilizer is also a great option for feeding your basil.
Harvesting and Propagating Purple Basil
Harvesting Leaves
To harvest Purple Basil, simply pinch off the leaves or cut the stems as needed. Harvesting regularly encourages new growth and keeps the plant bushy. It’s best to harvest in the morning after the dew has dried for the best flavor.
Propagating by Cuttings
You can propagate Purple Basil easily by taking stem cuttings. Snip a healthy stem just below a node, remove the lower leaves, and place the cutting in a glass of water or directly into a pot with soil. After a few weeks, the cutting will develop roots and can be transplanted.
Seed Saving
If you want to save seeds for future planting, allow the flowers to mature and produce seeds. Once the seed heads have dried, collect the seeds and store them in a cool, dry place until the next growing season.
Perfect For:
- Herb Gardens: Adds color and flavor to any herb garden, whether in the ground or containers.
- Windowsills: Thrives indoors, making it ideal for growing on a sunny windowsill.
- Culinary Use: A perfect herb for chefs and home cooks, adding a unique twist to your favorite dishes.
- Pollinator Gardens: Attracts bees and butterflies, benefiting local ecosystems.
Why Choose Purple Basil Seeds?
Purple Basil Seeds offer a unique and visually striking addition to your garden or kitchen. With their bold color, aromatic flavor, and culinary versatility, they are perfect for anyone looking to grow an eye-catching and useful herb. Whether you’re an experienced gardener or just starting out, Purple Basil is easy to grow and maintain, offering delicious rewards for your efforts. Plus, its vibrant foliage can be enjoyed fresh or dried, making it a wonderful herb to cultivate all year round.
Non-GMO
Dharaseeds are Non-GMO and free from genetically modified organisms.
High Germination Rate
Tested for high viability to ensure successful sprouting.
Heirloom Variety
Open-pollinated seeds preserved for quality and authenticity.
Chemical-Free
Free from synthetic pesticides, herbicides, and additives.