Ocimum 'African Blue'
African blue basil
A short-lived perennial to about 75cm, with dark green leaves, flushed purple when young, with a strong, camphor scent. Spires of purple-pink flowers on purple stems are produced in summer
Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
1–2 yearsUltimate spread
0.5–1 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Purple Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Pink Purple | Purple Green | ||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H2Botanical details
- Family
- Lamiaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Bushy
- Genus
Ocimum can be aromatic annuals, evergreen perennials or shrubs with opposite, linear to broadly-ovate leaves and small tubular white or pinkish flowers in whorls forming a spike
- Name status
Accepted
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in light, well-drained, fertile soil in a sheltered position in full sun. May be grown as a short-lived sub-shrub in mild areas or over-wintered under glass
Propagation
Propagate by softwood cuttings; does not set seed
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- City and courtyard gardens
- Cottage and informal garden
- Mediterranean climate plants
- Patio and container plants
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
Cut back after flowering
Pests
Diseases
May be affected by powdery mildews
Get involved
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