Holy Basil
Ocimum sanctum, commonly called Holy Basil or Tulsi, is a sacred herb from India, cherished for its medicinal and spiritual value. This bushy plant grows 30–60 cm tall, with aromatic green or purplish leaves that smell spicy, like cloves. It produces small pink or purple flowers on slender spikes. In Ayurveda, it’s used as an adaptogen to ease stress, support immunity, and aid digestion. Its peppery leaves are used fresh or dried in teas and cooking. In Hinduism, Tulsi is a protective plant, often grown near homes for its purifying qualities.
Tips for Growing Ocimum sanctum in Britain
Ocimum sanctum loves warmth (20–30°C) and full sun, making Britain’s cooler climate challenging. Grow it indoors, in a greenhouse, or a sunny, sheltered area, treating it as an annual outdoors since it can’t survive frost.
Care: Keep compost soil moist but not soggy. Water when the top feels dry. Feed every 2–3 weeks with liquid fertilizer in spring–summer. Pinch tips to encourage bushy growth.
Winter: Move pots indoors before frost (September–October). Keep above 15°C on a sunny windowsill or under grow lights.
Pests: Check for aphids or mildew. Use neem oil and ensure good airflow.
Harvest: Pick leaves when the plant reaches 15–20 cm, cutting above leaf nodes.
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To order 2 plants, just click quantity 1.
Sent in a letterbox friendly box that can be put through your door.
Sent 1st class post. Plants are sent bareroot in damp paper.
As soon as they arrive open carefully, and plant them in compost in a pot. Then give them a good watering to help them recover from their journey.
Image - Holy Basil seedling - Gardenis
