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The Ligurian PDO basil used for authentic pesto: small, oval convex leaves, pale green color, delicate mint-free aroma.
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Genovese Basil is the Ligurian PDO variety used for authentic Genovese pesto: oval, convex leaves of pale green color, with a delicate aroma free of any minty notes.
Its botanical name is Ocimum basilicum, belonging to the Lamiaceae family. It is an upright, branching annual herb reaching about 40-60 cm in height, with a square stem and opposite, glossy, slightly bullate leaves.
Sow from February to March in a protected seedbed, or directly outdoors from April to June once night temperatures no longer drop below 10°C. Sow seeds about 0.3-0.5 cm deep; they germinate in 5-10 days.
It prefers light, well-drained soil rich in organic matter, in full sun or partial shade in hotter areas. Ideal growing temperatures range between 20 and 25°C, and it does not tolerate values below 10°C.
Leaves can be harvested as early as 40-60 days from sowing: regularly pinching the growing tips and flowers encourages lush growth and extends the plant's productive cycle.
Leaves are best eaten fresh, as drying causes them to lose much of their characteristic aroma. To preserve them, steep in olive oil or freeze whole, for example inside ice cubes.
It can be affected by whitefly infestations and, under excessive humidity, by root rot and basil downy mildew. Good ventilation and moderate watering help prevent these issues.
Rich in essential oils, vitamin K and antioxidants, basil has digestive and anti-inflammatory properties and is traditionally used in herbal medicine as well as in cooking.