Herbs

Ocimum tenuiflorum

Holy basil

Also known as: Tulsi · Tulasi · Hot basil

Holy basil showing its aromatic foliage. Adityamadhav83 / CC BY-SA 3.0.

A branching aromatic herb with spicy leaves and small tubular flowers. Leaf and stem coloring varies; no named selection is specified. Remove unwanted seedlings.

At a glance

Sun: Full sun
Mature size: Up to 3 ft. tall
Water: Moist, well-drained soil
Life cycle: Annual or short-lived tender perennial
Bloom: Small white, pink or lavender tubes.

Sizes & prices

3.5"$4.99

Catalog updated September 8, 2026. This is not a live stock count; please call to confirm availability and price.

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Resistance & tolerances

Wet soil: Keep evenly moist with drainage; avoid waterlogging.

Culinary uses

Edible part: Leaves; a spicy mix of clove, mint and basil.
Try in: Cooked dishes and tea; commonly cooked rather than eaten raw.

Growing & care

Pests: Hand-pick Japanese beetles if present.
Harvest: Pick leafy shoot tips regularly, taking only part of the plant. Pinch lengthening stems for bushier growth.

Monitor self-seeding and Japanese beetles. Containers help manage its vigorous growth.

Sources & photo credits

NC State Extension

University of Maryland Extension

Photo: Adityamadhav83 / CC BY-SA 3.0; resized and converted to WebP · CC BY-SA 3.0

Image notes: Holy basil showing its aromatic foliage. Adityamadhav83 / CC BY-SA 3.0. Resized and converted to WebP.

Reviewed September 15, 2026. Growing conditions vary by location.