Holy basil (Ocimum tenuiflorum)

Also known as: Hot Basil, Tulasi

Holy Basil (Ocimum tenuiflorum), native to India, is an aromatic herb commonly found in Thai dishes, often referred to as Thai holy basil. It holds significant religious importance for Vaishnava Hindus and is highly esteemed in holistic medicine for its essential oil.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting

Attributes of Holy basil

Lifespan

Perennial, Annual

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

30 cm to 1 m

Spread

50 cm

Leaf Color

Green Blue

Flower Size

2.5 cm

Flower Color

White Pink Purple Lavender

Images of Holy basil

Quickly Identify Holy basil

Slender stems covered in fine hairs

Distinct aroma from crushed ovate leaves

Whorls of lavender or white flowers on racemes

Tiny, one-seeded nutlets with purple-green to brown hue

Pubescent, square-shaped stem with vibrant purple-green coloration

Scientific Classification of Holy basil

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Mints plantains olives and allies

Family

Mint

Genus

Ocimum

Species

Holy basil

Planting and Growing of Holy basil

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 8 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

4-8 hours

Ideal Temperature

70-85℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Holy basil?

For Ocimum tenuiflorum, the principle is to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. You should aim to water until the top inch of soil feels moist, approximately with 200ml of water each time.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Holy basil? ›

What should I do if my Holy basil is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Holy basil? ›

How to save an overwatered Holy basil? ›

More About Watering Techniques→

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Holy basil?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, Partial sun

Duration of light: 6 to 8 hours

Ocimum tenuiflorum excels in full to partial sun environments. Ideal light encourages robust growth, enhances leaf aroma, and boosts the plant's overall vitality and resistance to pathogens.

What is the best type of sunlight for Ocimum tenuiflorum? ›

How can you provide ideal sunlight in an indoor environment? ›

What benefits does ideal lighting bring to Ocimum tenuiflorum? ›

More About Sunlight Requirements Techniques→

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Holy basil?

Ideal Temperature: 70 ~ 85℉

Ocimum tenuiflorum, commonly known as holy basil, thrives best in temperatures ranging from 70°F to 85°F. This warm temperature range mimics its native tropical and subtropical habitats, promoting optimal growth and development. Maintaining these temperatures ensures that the plant's photosynthetic processes function effectively, leading to healthy foliage and a robust growth rate.

What Soil is Best for Holy basil?

Soil type: Sandy loam, Loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Ocimum tenuiflorum thrives in well-drained soil, preventing waterlogging and root rot. This type of soil allows for optimal air circulation and moisture levels, ensuring healthy root development and efficient nutrient uptake. A good amount of organic matter in the soil benefits Ocimum tenuiflorum by providing essential nutrients and improving soil structure. This enhances microbial activity, which is crucial for the plant's overall growth and vitality. Moderately fertile soil supports steady growth without causing over-fertilization problems. Ocimum tenuiflorum benefits from a balance of nutrients, promoting strong stems, lush foliage, and aromatic leaves ideal for culinary and medicinal uses. More About Soil→

How to Fertilize Holy basil?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Ocimum tenuiflorum, a small amount of fertilizer goes a long way. It's recommended to use a balanced liquid fertilizer at a half strength, given its sensitivity to over-fertilization. A light top dressing of slow-release granular fertilizer can also be beneficial, applied in small doses. More About Fertilizing Techniques→

How to Prune Holy basil?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer, Autumn

Ensure that you use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears to avoid the introduction of diseases. Dirty tools can transfer pathogens to the plant, leading to infections that can hinder growth or even kill the plant. Before starting your pruning session, disinfect your tools with alcohol or a mild bleach solution. Try to prune during the cooler parts of the day, such as in the morning or late afternoon. Avoid pruning during extreme heat or right before a rainstorm, as these conditions can stress the plant. High temperatures can cause the cut ends to dry out too quickly, while rain can introduce moisture-related diseases. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Holy basil plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early summer

Choose plump and viable seeds for sowing. Check if the seeds are free from visible damage or discoloration that might hinder germination.

Select 4-6 inch stems with at least two sets of leaves from healthy Ocimum tenuiflorum plants. Make a clean cut using pruning shears just below a node.

Sow seeds in a seed tray filled with quality potting mix. Cover lightly with soil, keeping the seeds moist but not waterlogged.

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How to Repot Holy basil plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 1-2 years

Ocimum tenuiflorum, commonly known as Holy Basil, shows signs of needing repotting when its growth slows down, roots protrude from the drainage holes or the soil dries out too quickly. Monitor your plant for these signs and plan for repotting during the growing seasons of spring or early summer.

Select a pot that is one to two inches larger in diameter than the current one. Clay pots are a good choice due to their breathability which aids in preventing overwatering. Ensure the pot has proper drainage holes to avoid waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.

Opt for a well-draining potting soil rich in organic matter. A mix of peat, perlite, and a hint of coarse sand works well. This composition ensures proper aeration, holds adequate moisture without waterlogging, and provides necessary nutrients to support robust growth.

More About Repotting Techniques→