This annual herb from the Lamiaceae (mint) family is grown in temperate regions and is prominent in many cuisines worldwide. Basil (Ocimum basilicum) can be grown as a perennial in warm zones (USDA 9-11), and commonly grown worldwide as an annual. There are many different types of basil, and some of them are associated with specific regions or cuisines (Genovese basil, for example, is associated with Italian cooking, and there are a number of Thai basils used in Thai cookery). Although native to the tropical regions of Asia and Africa, there are some basils that originated in warm regions of Italy, and basil is often considered a classic plant to grow in Mediterranean herb gardens. Basil is relatively easy to grow from seed, in your garden or in containers. It likes plenty of sun, though will tolerate a bit of shade, and does best in well-drained, rich and loamy soil; a bit of sand may be added also. It likes regular water but be careful not to overwater. Basil can be planted outdoors in spring after the last frost, and new crops can be sown through mid summer. There are so many different types of basil that it can seem overwhelming to choose. We’ve gathered some of our favorites into a diverse sampling for you to consider growing at home.
Native Area: Africa, AsiaUSDA Zones: 9 to 11Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shadeHeight: 12 to 24 inches
Native Area: Central Asia, Southeast AfricaUSDA Zones: 9 to 11Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shadeHeight: 12 to 24 inches
Native Area: Africa, AsiaUSDA Zones: 9 to 11Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shadeHeight: 12 to 24 inches
Native Area: India, AsiaUSDA Zones: 9 to 11Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shadeHeight: 12 to 24 inches
Native Area: Africa, AsiaUSDA Zones: 9 to 11Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shadeHeight: 12 to 24 inches
Native Area: Africa, AsiaUSDA Zones: 9 to 11Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shadeHeight: 12 to 24 inches
Native Area: Africa, AsiaUSDA Zones: 9 to 11Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shadeHeight: 6 to 8 inches
Native Area: Africa, AsiaUSDA Zones: 9 to 11Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shadeHeight: 12 to 20 inches
Native Area: Africa, AsiaUSDA Zones: 9 to 11Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shadeHeight: 12 to 18 inches
Native Area: IsraelUSDA Zones: 9 to 11Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shadeHeight: 24 to 30 inches
Native Area: India, AsiaUSDA Zones: 9 to 11Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shadeHeight: 6 to 10 inches
Native Area: India, AsiaUSDA Zones: 9 to 11Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shadeHeight: 12 to 24 inches
Native Area: Africa, AsiaUSDA Zones: 8 to 11Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shadeHeight: 24 to 48 inches
Native Area: India, AsiaUSDA Zones: 9 to 11Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shadeHeight: 8 to 10 inches
Native Area: ItalyUSDA Zones: 8 to 11Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shadeHeight: 10 to 12 inches
