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Description
Ocimum Basilicum Genovese, commonly known as Genovese basil, is a popular herb that belongs to the mint family, Lamiaceae. This annual plant is native to tropical regions of central Africa and southeast Asia. It is widely cultivated for its aromatic leaves, which are used in various culinary preparations and herbal remedies.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Ocimum |
Appearance
Ocimum Basilicum Genovese has an upright growth habit and can reach a height of up to 2 feet. It has dark green, glossy, and fragrant leaves that are oval-shaped and slightly toothed. The plant produces small white or pink flowers that are arranged in spikes. The flowers are edible and attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Care Guide
Ocimum Basilicum Genovese requires regular care to thrive. Here are some tips:
- Water: Keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry.
- Fertilization: Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer every two to three weeks during the growing season.
- Soil: Use well-draining, nutrient-rich soil. The pH should be between 6.0 and 7.5.
- Sunlight: Place the plant in a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
- Hardiness Zones: Ocimum Basilicum Genovese is an annual plant and is not frost-tolerant. It grows best in USDA hardiness zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Ocimum Basilicum Genovese is susceptible to several pests and diseases, including:
- Aphids: These small insects suck the sap from the plant and cause distorted growth. Use insecticidal soap to control them.
- Whiteflies: These tiny insects feed on the undersides of leaves and cause yellowing and stunted growth. Use sticky traps or insecticidal soap to control them.
- Downy mildew: This fungal disease causes yellowing, wilting, and a white or grayish mold on the leaves. Avoid overhead watering and use fungicides to control it.
- Fusarium wilt: This fungal disease causes brown or yellow spots on the leaves and wilting of the plant. Remove and destroy infected plants and avoid planting in the same soil.
Habitat
Ocimum Basilicum Genovese is a tropical plant that grows best in warm and humid conditions. It can be grown in containers or in the ground in full sun to partial shade. It is commonly found in herb gardens, vegetable gardens, and as a companion plant in flower beds. It can also be grown indoors with sufficient light and warmth.
Question and Answer
Q: Can I harvest the leaves of Ocimum Basilicum Genovese anytime?
A: Yes, you can harvest the leaves anytime. However, the best time to harvest is in the morning after the dew has dried.
Q: How often should I prune my Ocimum Basilicum Genovese plant?
A: You can prune the plant as often as you like to encourage bushy growth and prevent flowering. However, avoid pruning more than one-third of the plant at once.
Q: Can I grow Ocimum Basilicum Genovese from seeds?
A: Yes, you can grow the plant from seeds. Sow the seeds indoors 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost or directly in the garden after the danger of frost has passed.
Q: How long does Ocimum Basilicum Genovese live?
A: Ocimum Basilicum Genovese is an annual plant, which means it completes its life cycle in one growing season. However, it can self-seed and grow again the next year.
Related Plants
- Ocimum tenuiflorum (Holy basil)
- Ocimum americanum (Lemon basil)
- Ocimum gratissimum (African basil)
- Ocimum kilimandscharicum (African blue basil)
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Ocimum basilicum ‘Genovese’. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b676
- Rodale’s Organic Life. (2017, August 29). How To Grow Genovese Basil. Retrieved from https://www.rodalesorganiclife.com/garden/genovese-basil
- University of Illinois Extension. (n.d.). Basil. Retrieved from https://extension.illinois.edu/herbs/basil.cfm
