Ocimum basilicum var. purpurascens, commonly known as purple basil, is a unique species of basil that is gaining popularity due to its aromatic and flavorful leaves. This variety of basil is known for its distinctive purple-tinged leaves and its strong aroma.
Unlike other varieties of basil, purple basil has a milder flavor, making it a great addition to salads, soups, and sauces. In this blog, we will explore the unique characteristics of purple basil and discuss some of the best ways to use it in your cooking.
Benefits of ocimum basilicum var. purpurascens
As an English garden expert, I have to say that Ocimum basilicum var. purpurascens, is one of the most interesting and beneficial herbs on our menu. This variety of basil is a hardy perennial, meaning it will come back year after year in your flower beds or herb gardens.
The plant itself is an attractive variety with reddish tinged foliage and small, lavender-purple flowers. Aside from being a beautiful addition to gardens and balconies, Ocimum basilicum var.
purpurascens is loaded with benefits for both humans and animals. Firstly, it is edible and has a range of culinary applications. Its leaves have a strong aniseed flavour which adds an interesting zing to salads or recipes.
It can also be air dried and stored for long-term use. In terms of health benefits, Ocimum basilicum var.
purpurascens is great for digestive health. It is shown to soothe nausea and indigestion, reduce inflammation and relax spasms in the digestive system. The herb also has antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties which can be used to treat certain ailments.
Furthermore, Ocimum basilicum var. purpurascens is thought to have soothing properties.
This makes it great for relieving stress, anxiety and even insomnia. All in all, Ocimum basilicum var. purpurascens is a great addition to any garden or balcony. Not only is it a beautiful and hardy addition to your outdoor space, it’s full of culinary and medicinal benefits. From digestion health to stress relief, this herb is definitely worth pursuing.
How to grow ocimum basilicum var. purpurascens
Gardeners across the UK are seeking more unique and visually striking plants to add to their collections, and Ocimum basilicum var. purpurascens is one of the more exciting options out there.
Native to India, this variety of basil bears deep purple leaves and adds an intense splash of colour to gardens and window sills alike. It is a hardy plant and is relatively easy to care for, making it an ideal choice for beginner gardeners. To ensure optimum growth, make sure to provide your Ocimum basilicum var.
purpurascens with plenty of direct sunlight. It prefers being housed in soil-based pots or gardens with good drainage, and likes to be watered frequently but not oversaturated. Feed it with a balanced organic fertilizer every two weeks, as relying on its natural nutrient sources can be difficult and increase the growth time.
Finally, keep an eye on the plant’s foliage to make sure it’s not being over- or underwatered. If you see the leaves curling or wilting in any way, increase your watering frequency, and make sure to prune back any stems or leaves that have outgrown the pot.
With just a bit of care and attention, you can enjoy a vibrant and healthy Ocimum basilicum var. purpurascens that will liven up your outdoor or indoor space.
How to use ocimum basilicum var. purpurascens
Ocimum basilicum var. purpurascens, also known commonly as purple basil, has become a popular herb to grow in gardens and containers alike! This variety of basil is a fragrant and flavorful addition to any dish, and its distinctive purple color and leaf shape make it a great addition to the garden.
For best results, individuals should plant purple basil in a slightly acidic soil that has sufficient drainage. Once planted, watering should focus solely on the soil and not directly onto the basil leaves.
Exposure to sunlight should also be taken into account, as this variety of basil can thrive in full-sun to partial-shade environments. Furthermore, it is advisable to harvest frequently by trimming individual leaves from the plants (avoiding cutting more than a third of the plant).
Pruning should be done in order for the plant to become bushier, as well as to keep its unique leaf shape intact. Perhaps one of the biggest benefits of growing purple basil is that it is very easy to propagate. All one needs to do is take a cutting from a healthy plant and put it in a jar filled with water.
Make sure that the stem is submerged in the water and make sure to keep it in a location with indirect sunlight. After a few days, you’ll begin to see roots form, and the cutting is then ready to be transferred to a soil-filled pot.
In closing, when utilized properly, Ocimum basilicum var. purpurascens can be a wonderful addition to the garden and can be used to add flavor to your culinary creations as well. By following the advice mentioned above, no doubt you will have success growing this exceptional herb!
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Conclusion
Ocimum basilicum var. purpurascens, commonly known as Purple Basil, is a variety of basil with a unique flavor and striking purple color. It is widely used in Mediterranean and Asian cuisine, adding a unique flavor to dishes.
Its leaves can be used fresh or dried, and its flowers are also edible. This variety of basil is easy to grow and can be used to make a variety of herbal teas.
Its striking purple color and unique flavor make it a great addition to any garden.
FAQ
What are the characteristics of Ocimum basilicum var. purpurascens?
Ocimum basilicum var. purpurascens is a variety of sweet basil that has purple-tinged leaves and stems. It is an annual herb with a strong aroma and flavor, and it is used in many culinary dishes. Its leaves are slightly larger than regular sweet basil and have a slightly spicier flavor. It is also known for its medicinal properties, including its ability to reduce inflammation and aid digestion.
How is Ocimum basilicum var. purpurascens different from other varieties of basil?
Ocimum basilicum var. purpurascens is a variety of basil that is distinguished by its purple leaves, stems, and flowers. This variety is also more aromatic and has a stronger flavor than other varieties of basil.
What are the uses of Ocimum basilicum var. purpurascens?
Ocimum basilicum var. purpurascens is used for culinary, medicinal, and ornamental purposes. It is used to flavor food, as a medicinal remedy for various ailments, and as an ornamental plant in gardens.
How is Ocimum basilicum var. purpurascens grown?
Ocimum basilicum var. purpurascens is typically grown in warm, sunny locations with well-drained soil. It should be watered regularly and fertilized every few weeks. It can be propagated from cuttings or seeds.
What are the benefits of consuming Ocimum basilicum var. purpurascens?
The benefits of consuming Ocimum basilicum var. purpurascens include improved digestion, relief from cold and flu symptoms, improved circulation, and antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Additionally, this variety of basil may help to reduce stress and anxiety, improve skin health, and boost the immune system.
What is the nutritional value of Ocimum basilicum var. purpurascens?
Ocimum basilicum var. purpurascens is a rich source of vitamin A, vitamin K, and essential minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and iron. It also contains a variety of antioxidants and phytochemicals, which may help protect against certain diseases.
