What it is
Genovese Basil (Ocimum basilicum Genovese) is in the Lamiaceae (Mint) family. The classic large-leaf pesto basil. Pinch flower buds the moment they form to keep leaves coming.
How to grow it
It wants full sun, water it even, and give it rich soil. Target a soil pH around 6.0-7.0. Space plants about 10-12 in apart. Expect roughly 60. Warm-season annual.
How it's used
Genovese Basil is used: pesto, fresh, dried.
🔎 How to identify it
- Large cupped glossy leaves
- Square stems
- Sweet clove aroma
Edibility
PartsLeaves
UsesPesto, fresh, dried
CautionPinch flowers to prolong harvest.
🌤 Before you plant: check the live 7-day garden weather to time it right for frost and heat.
Part of the free Texas Roots plant database, compiled by Jordan Polasek from his greenhouse in El Campo, Texas. Free to read and share. If it helped, the best thanks is to grow something.