• Italian Large Leaf Basil Seeds for planting in Canada Graines de basilic italien à grandes feuilles à planter au Canada
  • Close-up of Fresh Italian Large Leaf Basil garden Gros plan du jardin de basilic italien frais à grandes feuilles
  • Italian Large Leaf Basil herb packaging dimensions Dimensions de l'emballage de l'herbe de basilic italien à grandes feuilles
  • Fresh Italian Large Leaf Basil leaf for seasoning Feuilles de basilic italien frais à grandes feuilles pour l'assaisonnement
  • Large, aromatic leaves of Italian Basil container gardening Grandes feuilles aromatiques jardinage en pot de basilic italien
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JNB Seed

Basil Leaf Seeds Italian Large Leaf Seeds

Basil Leaf Seeds Italian Large Leaf Seeds

$9.99 CAD
$9.99 CAD
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This popular variety of Basil boasts the largest leaves among all Basil varieties. Its sweet and spicy flavor lends itself well to various culinary uses, including cooked dishes, fresh salads, sauces, and cooked meals. Plants produce large green leaves measuring 5 to 10 centimeters in length. In comparison to Genovese Basil, this variety offers a sweeter and milder scent and taste.

Renowned chefs in the Neapolitan region of Italy highly value this sweet Basil, considering it essential for their traditional cuisine. Originating from India and ancient Persia, Basil holds a rich history as one of the most esteemed herbs. Ancient lore attributes healing powers to Basil, and it holds symbolic significance in many cultures, symbolizing love, protection, and truth. Interestingly, in Greek and Roman cultures, Basil represented hate and misfortune, leading gardeners to hurl insults at their plants to stimulate growth. Despite conflicting beliefs about its properties, Basil gained favor among English royalty and commoners alike, cherished for its scent and used in culinary and cosmetic applications.

Large Leaf Basil is an excellent choice for those who enjoy making pesto or relish the aromatic essence of herbs. With its expansive leaves and slow-bolting nature, this Basil variety ensures a plentiful harvest for all your culinary endeavors.

Ideal for Pesto - Large Leaf Basil boasts exceptional flavor and a robust herbal aroma, making it perfect for enhancing pesto, Italian cuisine, and other dishes requiring generous amounts of Basil. Generous Leaves - True to its name, Large Leaf Basil produces leaves measuring 7.6 to 10.2 centimeters. Each plant yields an abundance of these sizable leaves and can thrive both indoors and outdoors. This sweet Basil variety is resistant to premature flowering, extending the growing season.

    How To Grow

    Sowing: Basil flourishes in warm climates and is best planted when the soil has warmed and the threat of frost has passed. For gardeners with short growing seasons, starting seeds indoors 3-4 weeks before the last frost date is advisable. Plant seeds thinly in trays and provide warmth to facilitate germination. When transplanting, space seedlings 38-45 cm apart. Alternatively, directly sow Italian large leaf basil seeds 6 mm deep in fertile soil and full sunlight, thinning them to 38-45 cm apart once seedlings emerge. Italian large leaf basil seeds also thrive indoors or in containers.

    Growing: Basil requires well-drained soil and regular watering. Provide protection if temperatures drop below 10 degrees Celsius. Pruning basil aids in promoting bushy growth and prolonging the plant's lifespan. It's essential to prune regularly, particularly before flowering begins, as flowering signals the plant's decline. To prune, remove the top few sets of leaves from each stem, ensuring at least three sets remain on the lower portion.

    Harvesting

    Basil leaves can be harvested once they reach a height of 15-20 cm. The optimal time for harvesting is in the morning, after dew has evaporated. Regular harvesting enhances productivity, but once flowers appear, the leaves become bitter. Harvest single leaves or parts of stems as needed, ensuring to leave at least three sets of leaves on each stem for continued growth. When harvesting, pinch the stem directly above the next set of leaves. Fresh basil can be stored at room temperature with stems in water, but refrigeration may cause wilting and browning. Basil can also be frozen or dried, with drying best done in a dehydrator, oven, or similar warm, dry environment due to its high water content, which makes it prone to mold.

    Seed Saving

    Once basil flowers have faded, Italian large leaf basil seeds will begin to form. Harvest seed clusters when they turn brown, then dry them in a sheltered spot away from direct sunlight. Thresh the pods to extract the seeds, removing as much chaff as possible. Store Italian large leaf basil seeds in a cool, dry place.

    Extra Facts

    Latin Name: Ocimum basilicum

    Type: Open Pollinated, Heirloom, Warm Season

    Life Cycle: Annual

    USDA Zones: 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    Planting Method: From Transplant

    Sunlight: Full Sun

    Height: 76.2 centimeters

    Color: Green

    Bloom Season: Blooms Late Summer, Blooms Early Fall

    Uses: Aromatic

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