Origin and description
Many types of basil are native to Africa and South America. Already 1000 BC Chr. the herb was cultivated in the Indian suburbs. In the 12th In the 19th century it came to Central Europe. In India, basil is primarily of religious importance; Indian basil (Ocinum sanctum), also known as "holy basil", is dedicated to the god Vishnu and is considered a panacea and rejuvenating agent, but also an aphrodisiac. The mostly annual basil is between 20 and 70 centimeters high, depending on the variety. The cross-opposed leaves can be very different depending on the type and variety. The white bloom appears between June and September. The aromatic scent of the entire plant is typical.
also read
- Which herbs are suitable for the herb spiral?
- Instructions for a wooden herb spiral
- Use plant stones to build your own herb spiral
Protect basil from slugs
As a rule, basil is sown, grown in the room and only put outside in mid-May. Since it is the declared “favorite food” of Nudibranchs heard, it is only in the upper area of the herb spiral or safe in pots. Reseeding is possible until September. Pay attention to the
sowing Be careful not to cover the seeds with soil: basil is one of the light germs.Location in the herb spiral
Basil needs a lot of warmth and is sensitive to waterlogging, so it needs a permeable, but nutrient-rich soil. It therefore belongs in the upper to middle Herbal spiral area, in a very sunny place. If it is dry, you have to water regularly, because basil does not like waterlogged soil, but still likes it damp.
harvest
Just before flowering is the best time to pluck the leaves, which should be used fresh as possible. Basil quickly loses its aroma when dried, but it can be soaked in oil or frozen.
Related species and popular varieties
Basil is roughly divided into two subspecies, and there are a number of very different varieties:
- 'Big Green', 'Genovese'
- 'Lemon': Lemon basil with a citrus aroma, goes well with fish dishes
- 'Cinnamon': basil with a cinnamon flavor
- 'Opal': red-leaved variety
- Bush or dwarf basil: 15 centimeter high ornamental shape
- Tree basil (Ocinum gratissimum): wild basil from the tropics of Africa and Asia with a clove aroma and a pungent taste
Tips
If you plant basil, thyme, marjoram and oregano together in the herb spiral, you already have the most important herbs for Italian cuisine together.