Contents
Description
Ocimum Basilicum Dolce Fresca is a variety of sweet basil, also known as Genovese basil, that belongs to the mint family Lamiaceae. It is an annual herb that grows up to 24 inches tall and 12 inches wide. The leaves are ovate, bright green, and highly fragrant, with a sweet and spicy aroma that is popular in Mediterranean cuisine. The flowers are small, white, and appear in late summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Ocimum |
| Species | Basilicum |
Appearance
Ocimum Basilicum Dolce Fresca has bright green, ovate leaves that are highly fragrant and grow up to 2 inches long. The stems are also green and slightly hairy. It can grow up to 24 inches tall and 12 inches wide. In late summer, small white flowers appear on the plant.
Care Guide
Water: Ocimum Basilicum Dolce Fresca needs consistent moisture, but not waterlogged soil. Water the plant when the top inch of soil is dry.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant every two weeks with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.
Soil: The plant prefers well-draining, fertile soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5.
Sunlight: Ocimum Basilicum Dolce Fresca needs full sunlight for at least six hours a day.
Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in zones 4 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Ocimum Basilicum Dolce Fresca is susceptible to aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. The plant can also be affected by fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and downy mildew. To prevent pests and diseases, keep the plant in well-ventilated areas and avoid overhead watering. If necessary, use insecticidal soap or neem oil for pests and fungicides for diseases.
Habitat
Ocimum Basilicum Dolce Fresca is native to the Mediterranean region and is commonly grown in herb gardens, containers, and as a culinary herb. It prefers warm temperatures and well-draining soil.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Ocimum Basilicum Dolce Fresca?
A: Water the plant when the top inch of soil is dry.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Ocimum Basilicum Dolce Fresca?
A: The plant is hardy in zones 4 to 10.
Q: What is the ideal soil pH for Ocimum Basilicum Dolce Fresca?
A: The plant prefers well-draining, fertile soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5.
Q: What pests and diseases should I watch out for with Ocimum Basilicum Dolce Fresca?
A: The plant is susceptible to aphids, spider mites, whiteflies, powdery mildew, and downy mildew.
Related Plants
- Ocimum Basilicum ‘Dark Opal’
- Ocimum Basilicum ‘Lemon’
- Ocimum Basilicum ‘Thai’
References
- Hill, L. (2019). Basil: An Herb Lover’s Guide. Storey Publishing.
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Ocimum basilicum ‘Dolce Fresca’. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a870
- Rodale’s Basic Organic Gardening. (2014). Rodale.
