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basil
Ocimum citriodorum 'Pesto Perpetuo'
Basil (Ocimum citriodorum 'Pesto Perpetuo') is an easy-to-grow plant with green-tinted, red leaves. It has a strong, sweet smell and taste that is commonly used for pesto. Its uniform growth makes it very ornamental, and its contrasting vein pattern adds interest. It's also drought tolerant, once established. Basil can be harvested all summer long with a few cuttings each week to ensure continuous production. It's perfect for gardens, containers, and indoor plants. Be sure to keep it well-watered and in a sunny spot for the best results.
Sunlight
Full Sun
Water Needs
medium
USDA Hardiness Zones
Zone 2Zone 3Zone 4Zone 5Zone 6Zone 7Zone 8Zone 9Zone 10Zone 11
Hardiness Map
Green areas show climates worldwide where this plant can grow.
Zone 2Zone 3Zone 4Zone 5Zone 6Zone 7Zone 8Zone 9Zone 10Zone 11
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Water Every
7-10 days
Sun Needs
full-sun
Growth
Low
Care Level
Low
Season
Fall
Sep Oct Nov
Winter
Dec Jan Feb
Spring
Mar Apr May
Summer
Jun Jul Aug
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Pruning Time
How to Propagate
Seed Propagation
Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before last frost date
Cutting
Take 4-6" cuttings in spring, root in water or moist soil
Division
Divide root ball in spring, replant sections immediately
Layering Propagation
Bend stem to soil surface, cover lightly, roots form in 4-6 weeks
Air Layering Propagation
Bend stem to soil surface, cover lightly, roots form in 4-6 weeks
Plant Characteristics
Indoor Plant
Drought Tolerant
Is This Plant Right for You?
Good For:
- •Indoor growing
- •Forgetful waterers
- •Homes with pets
- •Low-maintenance gardens
Bloom Seasons
Care Tips
Light Requirements
Needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Place in the sunniest spot in your garden.
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water when top inch of soil is dry.