Lemon basil | Ocimum canum | Wild Basil

Lemon Basil | Ocimum canum | Wild Basil

Fragrant Citrus-Scented Herb for Culinary and Floral Use

Lemon Basil (Ocimum canum), also known as Wild Basil, is a wonderfully aromatic and versatile herb prized for its refreshing citrus-lime fragrance and delicate white blooms. Perfect for culinary, ornamental, and floral use, this variety adds a lively, zesty touch to both the kitchen and the cutting garden.

This annual herb grows to about 40 cm in height, forming lush, green foliage with fine texture and a distinctive lemony aroma. Its blooms attract bees and beneficial insects, making it an ideal choice for gardeners who value beauty, fragrance, and biodiversity alike.

Plant Information

• Botanical name: Ocimum canum
• Common name: Lemon Basil, Wild Basil
• Type: Annual
• Height: Approx. 40 cm
• Bloom type: Small, delicate flowers
• Color: White
• Days to maturity: Approx. 65 days from sowing
• Plant habit: Bushy, upright, aromatic foliage
• Stem quality: Fine, branching, suitable for cut use
• Light: Full sun
• Soil: Well-drained, nutrient-rich soil
• Plant spacing: 25–30 cm
• Vase life: 5–7 days (for floral use)
• Uses: Culinary herb, pollinator-friendly plant, floral filler, herbal tea ingredient

Growing Instructions

• Sowing: Indoors or in a greenhouse from March onwards
• Germination: 5–10 days at 21 °C
• Sowing depth: 2 mm; cover lightly with vermiculite or fine soil — light is essential for germination
• Transplanting: Move plants outdoors after the last frost into warm, sunny, sheltered locations
• Planting location: Containers, raised beds, or sunny borders
• Care: Keep evenly moist; basil dislikes cold and thrives in warmth

Key Features

• From sowing to flowering: 65 days
• Pollinator-friendly: Loved by bees and beneficial insects
• Multi-use: Perfect for culinary, floral, and aromatic applications

Uses and Applications

• Culinary herb: Adds a fresh, citrusy twist to fish, chicken, salads, herbal teas, and iced beverages
• Cut flower: The foliage and white blooms add fragrance and texture to summer bouquets
• Medicinal uses: Traditionally valued for its potential digestive and calming properties

Why Grow Lemon Basil

Beautiful, fragrant, and full of versatility — Lemon Basil enhances both your garden’s sensory appeal and your kitchen creations. Whether grown in pots, raised beds, or balconies, it rewards you with continuous aroma and beauty all season long.

✨ Order Lemon Basil seeds today and enjoy the refreshing scent and taste of citrus in your garden!