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Description
Ocimum basilicum Dark Opal, also known as purple basil, is a beautiful plant with dark purple leaves and pink flowers. It is a member of the Lamiaceae family and is native to tropical regions of central Africa and southeast Asia. This herb is widely grown for its unique color and flavor and is used in many cuisines around the world. It is an annual plant that grows up to 18 inches tall and 12 inches wide. The leaves are large and ovate, with a slightly serrated edge. The plant has a strong, sweet fragrance that is similar to clove.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Ocimum |
Appearance
The leaves of Ocimum basilicum Dark Opal are the main attraction of this plant. They are large, ovate, and have a deep purple color that is almost black. The leaves are slightly hairy and have a slightly serrated edge. The plant produces pink flowers that bloom in late summer. The flowers are small and grow in clusters on spikes that emerge from the top of the plant. The plant has a bushy growth habit and can reach up to 18 inches tall and 12 inches wide.
Care Guide
Ocimum basilicum Dark Opal is a relatively easy plant to grow and care for. Here are some tips on how to keep your plant healthy and happy:
- Water: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water when the top inch of soil is dry.
- Fertilization: Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer every 2-3 weeks during the growing season.
- Soil: Use well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Plant in full sun to partial shade. The plant needs at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
- Hardiness Zones: Ocimum basilicum Dark Opal is an annual plant that is hardy in zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Ocimum basilicum Dark Opal is generally not prone to pests or diseases. However, here are some common problems that you may encounter:
- Aphids: These small, pear-shaped insects can cluster on the leaves and stems of the plant. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or by spraying the plant with a strong stream of water.
- Whiteflies: These tiny, white insects can be found on the undersides of leaves. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or by spraying the plant with a strong stream of water.
- Root rot: Overwatering or poorly-draining soil can cause root rot. Make sure the soil is well-draining and don’t water too frequently.
Habitat
Ocimum basilicum Dark Opal is native to tropical regions of central Africa and southeast Asia. It is a warm-weather plant that prefers temperatures between 70-80°F. It can be grown outdoors in warm climates or indoors in containers in cooler climates.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Ocimum basilicum Dark Opal be used in cooking?
A: Yes, the leaves of this plant can be used in cooking. They have a slightly sweet and spicy flavor that is similar to traditional basil.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Ocimum basilicum Dark Opal plant?
A: Fertilize your plant with a balanced fertilizer every 2-3 weeks during the growing season.
Q: Can Ocimum basilicum Dark Opal be grown indoors?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown indoors in containers. Make sure it receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
Q: How tall does Ocimum basilicum Dark Opal grow?
A: This plant can reach up to 18 inches tall and 12 inches wide.
Related Plants
- Ocimum basilicum ‘Genovese’
- Ocimum basilicum ‘Lemon’
- Ocimum basilicum ‘Thai’
- Ocimum tenuiflorum
References
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/herbs/basil/purple-basil-plants.htm
- https://www.almanac.com/plant/basil
- https://www.gardendesign.com/plants/basil.html
