Basil

"good for the heart and for the head"

John Gerard, The Herball, 1597

Sweet basil is an annual, growing to 50cm, with fragrant green or purple leaves. Flowers are usually white or purple and attract bees. Red and yellow flowers are also available in other types. Bush Basil is a compact bush to 20cm which is hardier (and can last as a biennial). Does not have the "usual" basil flavour, more like cloves.

Companion Planting:

Known as the tomato herb, this herb likes to be grown with tomatoes and seems to keep pests and disease away. Also said to repel flies and mosquitoes. Hates to be grown near Rue.

Growing:

Plant seedlings or seed in well-drained soil in a semi-shade position (such as between the tomatoes).

Harvesting:

Pluck the leaves before the flowers open for a finer taste.

Culinary Use:

Can be added to omelettes, cucumber, peas, cheese, fish, spinach, zucchini, potato salad and bean soup. It makes a good herb oil by steeping leaves in olive oil, or make a herb vinegar by steeping in white wine vinegar.