Large Leaf Basil Seeds Ocimum basilicum – Heirloom Non-GMO Italian Sweet Basil for Planting

Description Large Leaf Basil Seeds Ocimum basilicum – Large, aromatic leaves for culinary use Classic Italian basil with large, tender, bright green leaves and a sweet, spicy aroma. Essential for pesto, Caprese salads, and Mediterranean cuisine. Fast-growing annual that thrives in warm conditions, rewarding you with continuous harvests all summer. Easy to grow from seed in garden beds or containers. Common Name: Large Leaf Basil, Sweet Basil Latin Name: Ocimum basilicum Plant Height: 18–24 in (45–60 cm) Seeds per Gram: ≈ 600–800 seeds/gram Life Cycle: Annual (perennial in zones 10–11) Foliage & Flower: Green leaves, white flower spikes Non-GMO · Open-pollinated · Heirloom · Essential culinary herb Botanical & Variety Details Common name(s)Large Leaf Basil, Sweet Basil, Genovese Basil Latin nameOcimum basilicum – classic large-leaf Italian basil selection Mature height45–60 cm (18–24″) — bushy, upright growth with broad leaves Seeds per gram~600–800 seeds/gram (approx. 17,000–22,000 seeds/oz) Growth cycleAnnual — completes its life cycle in one season; harvest leaves continuously Harvest periodSummer to frost (continuous leaf harvest if flower buds are pinched) Unique trait Sweet, spicy fragrance · Large, cupped leaves · Perfect for pesto & fresh use · Attracts bees when flowering �� Large Leaf Basil – Planting & Growing Guide �� Best planting seasonSpring after last frost; start indoors 4–6 weeks before last frost for earlier harvests. ��️ Ideal temperatureGermination at 70–85°F (21–29°C); grows best at 70–90°F (21–32°C). Protect from frost. ☀️ Shade requirementFull sun is essential (minimum 6–8 hours of direct sun). Light afternoon shade tolerated in very hot climates but may reduce leaf size and flavor intensity. �� Sowing rate (per m²)0.1–0.2 gram per square meter (approx. 60–160 seeds/m²) for dense leaf production; thin later. �� Sowing depth1/4 inch (6 mm) — lightly cover with fine soil; requires warmth for germination. �� Water & careKeep evenly moist until germination (5–10 days). Water regularly but avoid waterlogged soil. Mulch to retain moisture. �� Spacing after thinningThin to 8–12 inches (20–30 cm) apart for bushy, well-branched plants. �� Days to harvestFirst leaves ready in approx. 60 days; full maturity 75–90 days from sowing. Sun requirement: Full sun produces the strongest aroma, richest flavor, and healthiest growth. In partial shade plants may become leggy with smaller leaves and diminished essential oils. Provide afternoon shade only in zones 9 . Pro harvesting tip: For continuous supply, succession sow every 3 weeks. Pinch tips regularly to encourage branching and delay flowering. Harvest leaves from the top down to keep plants productive. Sowing quick guide: Spring · Full sun · 0.1–0.2 g/m² · Cover ¼″ deep Germination 70–85°F | Full sun essential for flavor Harvest leaves frequently to encourage bushy growth; pinch off flower spikes to keep plants productive. Companion plant with tomatoes & peppers · Ideal for containers & kitchen gardens · Deer resistant.