Holy basil, Sacred Basil, Tulasi, Tulsi- Ocimum tenuiflorum

Holy Basil / Tulsi – Ocimum tenuiflorum
(Also known as Sacred Basil or Tulsi Basil)

Description:
Holy Basil (Ocimum tenuiflorum), commonly known as Tulsi, is a fragrant herb originally from India and widely valued for its culinary, cultural, and traditional uses. This basil has a stronger flavour than traditional sweet basil, but it can still be used in many of the same ways in the kitchen.

The plant grows as an upright annual herb, typically reaching 30 cm to 1 m tall. It features purple stems, slightly hairy aromatic green oval leaves, and produces small white to mauve flowers throughout the growing season. These flowers are highly attractive to European bees, native bees, and solitary bees, making it a valuable plant for pollinator-friendly gardens.

Holy Basil is also traditionally grown as a companion plant, as its strong aroma may help repel certain insects in the garden.

Traditional Uses:
In Ayurvedic medicine, Holy Basil has traditionally been used for a wide range of purposes, including supporting wellbeing during stress, anxiety, diabetes, and high cholesterol. However, there is limited scientific evidence supporting many of these uses.

Taste:
The leaves have a slightly spicy, aromatic flavour and are commonly used in Thai and Indian cuisine. The leaves can also be brewed to make herbal tea.

Plant Characteristics

• Botanical name: Ocimum tenuiflorum

• Common names: Holy Basil, Tulsi, Sacred Basil

• Fast-growing herb

• Upright plant 30 cm – 1 m tall

• Purple stems and aromatic green leaves

• White to mauve flowers

• Attracts bees and beneficial insects

• Traditionally used to help deter insects in the garden

• Can be grown for culinary, tea, ornamental, and companion planting uses

Growing Notes

• Fast-growing and easy to maintain

• Once established, it is easy to propagate from cuttings

• Suitable for garden beds, pots, and herb gardens