Basil Green Ruffles - Ocimum basilicum 'green ruffles'
140 Seeds
Sow February - May.
Prefers a rich, moist, well-drained soil in a sunny position but with protection from the wind and frost.
Tender annual.
Height 45cm (18in), spread 30cm (12in).
Sow seeds 0.5cm (1/4in) deep, in small trays of compost and lightly cover the seeds with a sprinkling of compost, and place at a temperature of 15-20 degrees C. Alternatively sow direct outside in April and May into shallow seed drills.
The plant has leafy, finely ridged, hairy, square stems with branching roots. The flowers are small whitish blooms, in circular clusters, appearing in late summer. The leaves are toothed, oval, pointed, crinkled and bright green with a fresh, strong, clove-like scent.
Attractive to bees and butterflies. Plant next to tomatoes and peppers to improve crop. Do not plant near Rue as they can hinder each other.
Basil - Green Ruffles
Basil originated in South East Asia and possibly India, where it was regarded as a sacred herb. The name comes from the Greek basileus, meaning king. It was found growing around Christ's tomb after the resurrection. Some Greek orthodox churches use it to prepare their holy water and place pots of Basil below their alters. It was also a sign of grief and mourning but in addition symbolized hate, poverty and misfortune. In Elizabethan times it was used as a snuff for colds, to clear the brain and to soothe headaches.