Ocimum

Description

Ocimum, commonly known as basil, is a genus of aromatic plants in the family Lamiaceae. Native to tropical regions of central Africa and southeast Asia, Ocimum is widely grown for its culinary and medicinal uses. The plant has a strong, sweet scent and is used in a variety of dishes, such as pasta sauces, pesto, and salads. It is also used in traditional medicine to treat a range of ailments including coughs, colds, and fever.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Ocimum plants typically grow to a height of 30-130 cm and have a bushy appearance. The leaves are green, simple, and ovate, with serrated edges. They are arranged in pairs opposite each other on the stem. The flowers are small, white or pink, and grow in clusters on the upper part of the stem. The plant has a strong, sweet scent that is most prominent when the leaves are crushed.

Care Guide

When caring for Ocimum plants, it is important to consider the following:

• Water: Ocimum plants require regular watering, but the soil should be allowed to dry out slightly between waterings.
• Fertilization: The plant should be fertilized every 2-3 weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
• Soil: Ocimum plants prefer well-drained, fertile soil with a pH between 6 and 7.
• Sunlight: The plant requires full sun to partial shade.
• Hardiness Zones: Ocimum plants are hardy in USDA zones 10-11, but can be grown as annuals in cooler climates.

Common Pests & Diseases

Ocimum plants are susceptible to a range of pests and diseases, including:

• Whiteflies: These tiny, winged insects can cause damage to the leaves and transmit plant viruses.
• Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects can cause damage to the leaves and transmit plant viruses.
• Downy mildew: This fungal disease can cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves.
• Fusarium wilt: This fungal disease can cause wilting and death of the plant.

Habitat

Ocimum plants are native to tropical regions of central Africa and southeast Asia, but are now widely grown in other parts of the world. They thrive in warm, humid climates and require well-drained soil.

Question and Answer

Q: What is the best way to propagate Ocimum plants?
A: Ocimum plants can be propagated by taking stem cuttings and rooting them in water or moist soil.

Q: How often should Ocimum plants be pruned?
A: Ocimum plants should be pruned regularly to encourage bushy growth and prevent them from becoming leggy. Pruning should be done every 2-3 weeks during the growing season.

Q: Can Ocimum plants be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Ocimum plants can be grown indoors as long as they receive adequate sunlight and are not overwatered.

Q: What is the best way to harvest Ocimum leaves?
A: Ocimum leaves should be harvested in the morning, after the dew has dried, but before the sun gets too hot. The leaves should be picked from the top of the plant, leaving the lower leaves in place.

Related Plants

• Thymus (thyme)
• Mentha (mint)
• Satureja (savory)
• Rosmarinus (rosemary)

References

• Flora of China. (n.d.). Ocimum. Flora of China. http://www.efloras.org/florataxon.aspx?flora_id=2&taxon_id=126401
• Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Ocimum. Missouri Botanical Garden. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=286607&isprofile=0&basic=ocimum
• National Center for Biotechnology Information. (n.d.). Ocimum. National Center for Biotechnology Information. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/Taxonomy/Browser/wwwtax.cgi?id=4529