Purple Basil Plant – Untreated Heirloom ‘Dark Opal’
Ocimum basilicum | Perennial Culinary & Medicinal Herb
Introducing the stunning Purple Basil ‘Dark Opal’, an heirloom variety prized for its magnificent dark purple foliage and unique sweet aniseed flavour. More than just a beautiful garden addition, this aromatic perennial basil is a versatile herb for the kitchen and a treasured plant in the wellness garden. It can be used exactly like sweet basil to flavour dishes, and is perfect for making infused oils, tinctures, or simply enjoyed as a striking edible garnish. Grows excellently in pots or garden beds.
Some interesting facts about basil: “Due to its antimicrobial, insecticidal activity and very pleasant aroma, basil essential oil is widely used in the food, pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and aromatherapy industries. In addition, now-a-days public prefers natural food additives hence naturally derived antimicrobial agents from basil have become more important in antimicrobial packaging as they present a perceived lower risk to consumers. Aromatic leaves and flowering parts of O. basilicum are traditionally used as stimulant and tonic agents used in folk remedies to treat various ailments such as poor digestion, stomach-ache, feverish illnesses, nausea, abdominal cramps, gastro-enteritis, migraine, insomnia, depression, gonorrhoea, dysentery, and chronic diarrhoea exhaustion. Externally, they have been applied for the treatment of acne, loss of smell, insect stings, snake bites, and skin infections. Rosmarinic acid (RA) is the most biologically active compound present in Basil. The extract of the herb is used in preventing cardiovascular diseases through improved diet and several antioxidant compounds it contains display a high antioxidant power. (Ullah et.al., 2023)”
Key Features:
Heirloom & Untreated: Naturally grown, chemical-free plants.
Ornamental & Edible: Deep purple foliage adds stunning colour to gardens and plates.
Unique Flavour Profile: Offers a sweet, spicy flavour with distinct aniseed notes.
Perennial Habit: In warm, frost-free climates, it can grow as a perennial, providing harvests for seasons to come.
Dual-Purpose: Valued both as a culinary herb and for traditional wellness practices.
Growing Guide for Australian Gardens:
A relatively easy herb to grow, thriving in warm conditions.
Initial Care & Planting:
On Arrival: Water the plant well and place it in a half-shade, sheltered spot for 3-5 days to recover.
Acclimatisation: As our nursery plants are grown in semi-shade, gradually introduce them to more sun over a week if your final spot is sunnier.
Planting Out: Re-pot or plant into the garden when roots begin to emerge from the drainage holes. Water thoroughly immediately after planting.
Ideal Conditions:
Climate: Grows as a perennial in frost-free subtropical and tropical areas. Treat as a warm-season annual in temperate regions, planting after the last frost.
Sun: Prefers partial shade in the Australian climate, especially in hot afternoon sun. Morning sun with afternoon shade is ideal.
Soil: Enjoys rich, well-drained soil. It performs beautifully in slightly raised garden beds. For pots, use a premium potting mix.
Watering: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water at the base to avoid wetting the leaves.
Harvesting: Regular picking of the tips promotes bushier growth and prevents flowering, which can make the leaves bitter.
Important Notes
This Listing: The price is for one young, potted plant, lovingly nurtured in my permaculture food forest in Pacific Haven, QLD.
Shipping: We ship within Australia only. We cannot ship to Norfolk Island, NT, SA, TAS, or WA.
Local Pickup: Available in Pacific Haven, QLD by appointment only.
Disclaimer: The health information is provided for educational interest based on traditional use and scientific research. It is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before using any herb for therapeutic purposes. Please research new foods before consumption and see our full website disclaimer.
References:
Muhammad Arshad. Ullah., Ali, Hassan., and Ameer, Hamza (2023), Sweet Basil (Ocimum basilicum) Products as Medical Treatment of Human Diseases, J. Nutrition and Food Processing, 6(3); DOI:10.31579/2637-8914/124 https://www.auctoresonline.org/article/sweet-basil-ocimum-basilicum-products-as-medical-treatment-of-human-diseases
