Description
Thai Basil (Ocimum basilicum var. thyrsiflora) is a fragrant culinary herb prized for its narrow, glossy green leaves, attractive purple stems and distinctive sweet, spicy aroma with hints of aniseed and liquorice. This beautiful basil variety produces delicate purple flowers and is an excellent addition to kitchen herb gardens.
Widely used in Thai and Southeast Asian cuisine, Thai Basil is perfect for curries, stir-fries, noodle dishes, soups and fresh salads. Unlike traditional sweet basil, its robust flavour holds up particularly well during cooking. Its attractive foliage and vigorous growth also make it ideal for balconies, terraces and containers.
🌱 Growing Instructions
☀️ Sunlight: Prefers 5–6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Benefits from partial afternoon shade during Malta’s hottest summer months.
💧 Watering: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water regularly during hot, dry weather, preferably early in the morning.
🌱 Soil: Plant in fertile, well-draining soil enriched with compost or organic matter.
🌡️ Temperature: Grows best between 20°C–30°C. Protect from temperatures below 10°C and cold winds.
📏 Spacing: Allow approximately 25–30 cm between plants for healthy, bushy growth and good air circulation.
🌾 Fertilizer: Apply a balanced organic or herb fertilizer every 2–3 weeks during active growth, following product instructions.
✂️ Harvesting: Pinch or cut the upper stems just above a pair of leaves to encourage branching. Remove flower buds regularly to maintain tender, aromatic foliage.
🌿 Local Growing Tips (Malta)
Best planting season: April to September, when temperatures are warm enough for healthy growth.
Position: Sunny herb gardens, raised beds, balconies or containers. Provide afternoon shade during intense summer heat.
Companion plants: Tomatoes, peppers, parsley and other culinary herbs.
Common issue: Wilting or scorched leaves can result from intense summer sunlight and irregular watering. Maintain consistent moisture and ensure good drainage.
📦 Product Information
Variety: Thai Basil
Botanical Name: Ocimum basilicum var. thyrsiflora
Family: Lamiaceae
Plant Type: Tender Perennial Culinary Herb (usually grown as an annual)
Growth Habit: Upright and Bushy
Mature Height: Approximately 30–60 cm
Flowering Season: Summer to Autumn
Harvest Season: Spring to Autumn
Special Characteristics: Aromatic green leaves, attractive purple stems, sweet aniseed-like flavour, vigorous growth and excellent suitability for Asian cooking.
Important Information
Pictures shown may vary from actual product due to the live nature of the items. Some items may be out of stock for various reasons, we will issue a refund or offer alternatives should that be the case.
The price is per one plant.
