Description
50 Seeds per pack
Basil – Licorice – Licorice Basil (A.K.A. Anise Basil)
Days to Maturity: 60–75 Days
Sun Requirements: Full Sun to Partial Shade
Botanical Name: (Ocimum basilicum)
Though often confused with Thai Basil, Licorice Basil stands apart for its strong licorice and anise flavor, rounded out by notes of cinnamon and a touch of clove. Long grown for both its culinary and traditional uses, this variety has had a place in herb gardens for generations.
Plants grow 24–36″ tall and spread 12–18″ wide, forming a tidy, upright habit. It is well suited to garden beds, borders, or containers. Slender, bright green leaves—often brushed with purple—grow along deep purple stems, creating a vivid and eye-catching contrast. Edible lavender flower spikes appear mid to late summer, attracting bees and other pollinators to the garden.
Its bold, sweet-spiced flavor enhances a wide range of recipes, from teas and desserts to marinades and stir-fries, while the flowers make an elegant garnishes. Traditionally, it has also been valued for its medicinal qualities, believed to help with colds, stomach upset, and mild skin irritations.
An excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K, it brings both beauty and flavor to the garden.
Disease Resistance: Downy Mildew.
Planting Instructions for Basil – Licorice Seeds
Licorice 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.
FAQ:
What makes Licorice Basil different from other basil varieties?
Licorice Basil stands out for its distinct flavor profile—strong licorice and anise notes with hints of cinnamon and clove. It’s often confused with Thai Basil but has a milder, sweeter spice and unique coloring with green and purple hues.
How should I start growing Licorice Basil—indoors or outdoors?
For best results, start seeds indoors about 6 weeks before your last frost date. Use warm soil (65–85°F), plant 2–3 seeds per inch, and thin seedlings once they reach 3–4 inches tall. You can also direct sow after frost has passed.
What kind of growing conditions does Licorice Basil need?
This basil thrives in full sun but tolerates partial shade. It prefers well-drained soil and consistent moisture—avoid letting the soil dry out completely, as basil isn’t drought-tolerant.
How big does Licorice Basil get, and how should I space it when planting?
Licorice Basil grows 24–36 inches tall and 12–18 inches wide. In garden beds, space plants 4–8 inches apart with 18 inches between rows. For container gardening, plant one basil per 8–10 inch pot to allow enough room for growth and airflow. Its upright growth habit makes it ideal for both compact garden beds and patio pots.
What’s the best way to store Licorice Basil after harvest?
For short-term storage, wrap fresh Licorice Basil leaves in a damp paper towel and place them in a sealed bag or container in the refrigerator. For long-term use, finely chop the leaves, freeze them in ice cube trays with olive oil, and use the cubes in cooked dishes. To dry the leaves, air dry them on a clean surface, use a dehydrator set to 95–115°F (35–46°C), or a low-temperature oven. Once fully dried and crisp, crumble and store in an airtight container away from light and heat.
What’s the best way to use Licorice Basil in cooking?
Its sweet, spiced flavor enhances teas, fruit salads, stir-fries, and marinades. It’s also great for infusing into oils and syrups
How do I save seeds from Licorice Basil?
Let flower spikes mature and dry on the plant. Snip the stalks, place them in a paper bag, and allow them to dry for 4–6 weeks. Shake and tap the bag to release the seeds.
How do I preserve Licorice Basil for long-term use?
To keep Licorice Basil fresh short-term, wrap the leaves in a damp paper towel and store them in a sealed bag or container in the fridge. For long-term storage, finely chop the leaves, place them in ice cube trays, cover with olive oil, and freeze—perfect for tossing into soups, sauces, or sautés. To dry, either air dry the leaves, use a dehydrator set to 95–115°F (35–46°C), or a low-temperature oven. Once completely dried, crumble and store in an airtight container in a cool, dark place.
Does Licorice Basil have any notable disease resistance?
Yes, Licorice Basil is known for its resistance to Downy Mildew, a common and often troublesome disease for basil growers. This resistance makes it a more dependable choice for gardens in humid or wet climates where mildew can be a recurring issue.
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