Contents
Description
Ocimum Basilicum Persian, also known as Persian basil or Reyhan, is a herbaceous plant that belongs to the family Lamiaceae. It is native to India and Iran, but is now widely cultivated around the world. The plant is known for its sweet and aromatic taste, and is often used in cooking to add flavor to various dishes. It is also used in traditional medicine for its medicinal properties.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Ocimum |
Appearance
Ocimum Basilicum Persian is a bushy plant that can grow up to 60 cm in height. It has green leaves that are oval in shape and have a smooth texture. The leaves are arranged in pairs on the stem, and are about 3-5 cm long. The plant produces small, white or pink flowers that grow in clusters at the top of the stem. The flowers have a sweet fragrance and attract bees and other pollinators.
Care Guide
To take care of Ocimum Basilicum Persian, you need to provide it with the right amount of water, fertilizer, soil, sunlight, and temperature. Here are some tips:Water: The plant needs to be watered regularly, but not too much. Make sure the soil is moist, but not waterlogged.Fertilization: Use a balanced fertilizer once a month to promote growth and flowering.Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Use a potting mix that contains peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite.Sunlight: The plant needs at least six hours of sunlight per day. If you are growing it indoors, place it near a sunny window.Hardiness Zones: Ocimum Basilicum Persian can be grown in USDA hardiness zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Ocimum Basilicum Persian is susceptible to a number of pests and diseases, including aphids, spider mites, whiteflies, and root rot. To prevent these problems, keep the plant clean and well-watered, and use insecticidal soap or neem oil if necessary.
Habitat
Ocimum Basilicum Persian is native to India and Iran, but is now widely cultivated around the world. It prefers warm temperatures and well-draining soil, and can be grown in both indoor and outdoor environments.
Question and Answer
Q: What are the culinary uses of Ocimum Basilicum Persian?
A: Ocimum Basilicum Persian is often used in cooking to add flavor to salads, soups, stews, and sauces.
Q: What are the medicinal properties of Ocimum Basilicum Persian?
A: Ocimum Basilicum Persian is believed to have anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, and anti-cancer properties, and is used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments.
Q: How do you propagate Ocimum Basilicum Persian?
A: You can propagate Ocimum Basilicum Persian by taking stem cuttings and rooting them in water or soil.
Q: How do you store Ocimum Basilicum Persian?
A: You can store fresh Ocimum Basilicum Persian in the refrigerator for up to a week. It can also be dried or frozen for later use.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Ocimum Basilicum Persian:
- Ocimum Basilicum
- Ocimum Tenuiflorum
- Ocimum Gratissimum
- Ocimum Kilimandscharicum
References
- “Ocimum Basilicum Persian.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=k900.
- “Persian Basil.” Gardening Know How, www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/herbs/basil/persian-basil-care.htm.
- “Ocimum Basilicum Persian.” Purdue University, Center for New Crops and Plant Products, www.hort.purdue.edu/newcrop/CropFactSheets/persianbasil.html.
