Plant & Tree Library

Description:

A dense growing variety producing spikes of small white flowers in mid-summer; aromatic leaves have a zesty citrus flavor; great for mixed containers, herb gardens, and annual beds

Edible Qualities

Lime Basil is an annual herb that is typically grown for its edible qualities, although it does have ornamental merits as well. The fragrant pointy lime green leaves which emerge chartreuse in spring are usually harvested from early summer to early fall. The leaves have a zesty taste and a pleasant fragrance.

The leaves are most often used in the following ways:

• Fresh Eating
• Cooking
• Seasoning

Planting & Growing

Lime Basil will grow to be about 20 inches tall at maturity, with a spread of 20 inches. When grown in masses or used as a bedding plant, individual plants should be spaced approximately 16 inches apart. This fast-growing annual will normally live for one full growing season, needing replacement the following year.

This plant can be integrated into a landscape or flower garden by creative gardeners, but is usually grown in a designated herb garden. It should only be grown in full sunlight. It prefers to grow in average to moist conditions, and shouldn't be allowed to dry out. It is not particular as to soil type or pH. It is somewhat tolerant of urban pollution. This is a selected variety of a species not originally from North America. It can be propagated by cuttings; however, as a cultivated variety, be aware that it may be subject to certain restrictions or prohibitions on propagation.

Lime Basil is a good choice for the edible garden, but it is also well-suited for use in outdoor pots and containers. It can be used either as 'filler' or as a 'thriller' in the 'spiller-thriller-filler' container combination, depending on the height and form of the other plants used in the container planting. Note that when growing plants in outdoor containers and baskets, they may require more frequent waterings than they would in the yard or garden.