Herb – Basil – Italian Large Leaf

Description

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50 Seeds per pack

Basil – Italian Large Leaf – Italian Large Leaf Basil (A.K.A. Sweet Basil)

Days to Maturity: 60–90 Days

Sun Requirements: Full Sun to Partial Shade

Botanical Name: (Ocimum basilicum)

Introduced to Europe and America from Italy in the late 1700s, Italian Large Leaf Basil is a classic Genovese-type heirloom treasured for its culinary and medicinal value. Known for its robust, slightly citrusy flavor and reliable yields, it has become a staple for home gardeners and chefs alike.

Plants grow to 24–36 inches tall and spread 15–24 inches wide, with large, glossy, medium-dark green leaves spanning 3 to 4 inches long. White blooms appear mid to late summer and attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies. Pinching back flowers will encourage a bushier, more foliage-heavy plant. Italian Large Leaf Basil also grows well in containers, making it ideal for patios, windowsills, or balcony planters.

Its flavor is milder and sweeter than traditional Genovese types, with less clove-like bite, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a gentler pesto or a more balanced touch in tomato-based sauces, soups, and fresh salads.

Traditionally, Italian Large Leaf Basil has been valued for more than just flavor—it’s been used to soothe colds, headaches, nausea, and minor skin irritations, and is known for its calming properties.

Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, it offers both flavor in the kitchen and a healthy boost to the table.

Disease Resistance: Downy Mildew, Fusarium Wilt.

Planting Instructions for Basil – Italian Large Leaf Seeds

Italian Large Leaf Basil is an annual plant that loves heat and full sun, and is sensitive to frost. Having a lower germination rate than most seeds, make sure to plant extra in each hole.

To start indoors, plant seeds ¼” deep, 2–3 seeds per inch. Thin to 4–8” apart once seedlings are 3–4” tall. If planting to transplant outdoors, start 6 weeks before last frost. For direct seeding in the garden, plant at the same depth and spacing as above. If planting in rows, space rows 18” apart. Seeds should germinate in 8–14 days, in soil temperatures of 65–85°F.

Water moderately and evenly, providing consistent watering throughout the time of growth. Basil is not drought tolerant and can be damaged by lack of water. Regular harvesting will keep production high and can begin once the plant is well established.

To save seeds, let flowers mature and dry most of the way, then snip at the base of the stalk. Collect the stalks in a tall paper bag and dry for 4–6 weeks. Then shake the paper bag and tap the stalks against the inside of the bag to finish freeing the seeds.

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