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Red Basil Seeds
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[Ocimum basilicum var. purpurascens] Red basil seeds, a striking purple-leaved variety with a delicate, slightly spicy aroma, ideal both in the kitchen and as an ornamental herb.
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More info
- Red Basil
- The Red Basil Plant
- How to Sow Red Basil
- How to Grow Red Basil
- Tips for Red Basil
- Diseases and Pests of Red Basil
- Uses and Curiosities of Red Basil
Red Basil
Red basil, also known as purple basil, is a variety distinguished by the unusual colour of its leaves, an intense amaranth or purple hue due to anthocyanins. Widely used in South-East Asia, where it flavours red curry, in Italy it is prized above all for garnishing salads and meat or fish dishes, as well as for its strong ornamental appeal.
The Red Basil Plant
Ocimum basilicum var. purpurascens belongs to the Lamiaceae family. The plant is very similar in shape to classic Genovese basil, but is entirely purple, including its slightly serrated leaves and sometimes the stems too. Its aroma resembles that of Ligurian basil but is generally milder and slightly spicier.
How to Sow Red Basil
Sowing takes place from March to April in a protected seedbed, transplanting seedlings into the field or pots from May, once night temperatures stay steadily above 12°C. Seeds should be covered with a thin layer of soil, keeping the substrate moist: germination occurs in about 7-14 days at a temperature of 20-25°C.
How to Grow Red Basil
Red basil prefers moderately moist, well-draining soil in a sunny position: good sun exposure intensifies the purple colouring of the leaves. Watering should be regular, avoiding waterlogging. As with other varieties, periodic pinching of flower tips encourages new leaf growth and extends the harvest period.
Tips for Red Basil
To maximise the purple colouring of the leaves, red basil should be grown in full sun: in overly shaded positions the leaves tend to keep greener tones. It should preferably be harvested before flowering, when the aroma is most concentrated, and used fresh to make a pesto with its characteristic garnet colour.
Diseases and Pests of Red Basil
Like other basil varieties, the red type can be affected by downy mildew in conditions of high humidity and poor ventilation, as well as by aphids and slugs that damage tender leaves. Good airflow around the crop and watering at the base, avoiding wetting the foliage, remain the most effective preventive defences.
Uses and Curiosities of Red Basil
Besides its culinary uses, red basil is often grown for its decorative value in flowerbeds and pots, thanks to the colour contrast it offers against other aromatic herbs. Like other varieties, it contains essential oils and antioxidant compounds, with the added contribution of the anthocyanins responsible for its unique colouring.