Ocimum Africanum
Contents
Description
Ocimum Africanum, also known as African Basil or Basilic Africain, is a popular herb in African cuisine. It is native to Africa and is widely grown in East and West Africa. It belongs to the family Lamiaceae and is closely related to the more commonly known Sweet Basil (Ocimum basilicum). Ocimum Africanum has a strong, pungent flavor and aroma, with hints of clove and anise. It is commonly used in stews, soups, and sauces, as well as in tea and traditional medicine.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Ocimum |
Appearance
Ocimum Africanum is a bushy herb that can grow up to 1 meter tall. Its leaves are shiny and oval-shaped, with serrated edges. They are typically dark green in color, but can sometimes have a purple tint. The plant produces small white or pink flowers in clusters at the top of the stems. The flowers are highly attractive to bees and other pollinators.
Care Guide
Ocimum Africanum is a relatively easy plant to care for, but it does have some specific requirements. Water: Ocimum Africanum prefers moist, well-draining soil. Water the plant regularly, especially during hot, dry weather. Avoid getting water on the leaves, as this can lead to fungal diseases. Fertilization: Feed Ocimum Africanum with a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. Soil: Ocimum Africanum prefers well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. Sunlight: Ocimum Africanum thrives in full sun, but can also tolerate partial shade. Hardiness Zones: Ocimum Africanum is a tropical plant and does not tolerate cold temperatures. It is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Ocimum Africanum is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but it can still be affected by a few common ailments. Pests: Aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies are the most common pests to affect Ocimum Africanum. These can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Diseases: Fusarium wilt, root rot, and powdery mildew can affect Ocimum Africanum. To prevent these diseases, avoid over-watering and keep the leaves dry.
Habitat
Ocimum Africanum is native to Africa and is widely grown in East and West Africa. It prefers warm, humid conditions and is typically found in tropical and subtropical regions.
Questions and Answers
Q: Can Ocimum Africanum be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Ocimum Africanum can be grown indoors as long as it is placed in a sunny location and provided with adequate moisture and nutrients. Q: How often should I prune my Ocimum Africanum plant?
A: Prune your Ocimum Africanum plant regularly to encourage bushy growth and prevent it from becoming too leggy. Q: Can I use Ocimum Africanum in pesto?
A: Yes, Ocimum Africanum can be used as a substitute for Sweet Basil in pesto. Q: Is Ocimum Africanum an annual or perennial plant?
A: Ocimum Africanum is considered an annual plant in most parts of the world, but can be perennial in tropical regions.
Related Plants
Other plants in the Ocimum genus include Sweet Basil (Ocimum basilicum), Holy Basil (Ocimum tenuiflorum), Lemon Basil (Ocimum citriodorum), and Thai Basil (Ocimum basilicum var. thyrsiflora).
References
– “Ocimum Africanum.” Plants of the World Online, Kew Science. Accessed 8 June 2021. – “African Basil.” Penn State Extension. Accessed 8 June 2021. – “Ocimum Africanum.” World Agroforestry Centre. Accessed 8 June 2021.
