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Basil Plants, Perpetuo
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Basil Plants, Perpetuo
Description
(Ocimum x citriodorum) Your order includes 3 plants. A marvelously fragrant, edible ornamental plant with light green, variegated leaves rimmed in creamy white and a unique citrusy aroma. This variety appeared as a spontaneous mutation on a plant of ‘Lesbos’ Greek columnar basil at a Connecticut nursery. It differs from culinary basils such as Genovese; its flavor is more intense, and since it doesn’t produce flowers or seeds, it can be harvested all summer, but it must be propagated from cuttings. It has a vertical growth habit and will reach two to three feet tall. It has many culinary uses, either fresh or dried.
- Perennial in USDA zones 10-11 (grown as an annual in cooler zones)
- Days to harvest: 30-45 days from transplant
- Sunlight requirements: 6-8 hours of full to partial sun
- Planting depth: Just deep enough to cover the roots
- Plant spacing: 12 to 18 inches
- Ideal temperature: 65°F to 85°F
- Frost hardy? No
Growing Tips, Tricks and FAQs
Growing Tips
Perpetuo basil is a vigorous, columnar basil variety prized for its intense flavor and unique growth habit. It does not produce flowers or seeds, allowing continuous harvest throughout the growing season. Keep soil consistently moist but well-drained, and provide plenty of sunlight. Regular pruning encourages bushier growth and prevents legginess.
When to Grow
Plant Perpetuo basil outdoors after all danger of frost has passed and nighttime temperatures remain above 50°F. In cooler climates, you can start plants indoors before the last frost date. If you’re not sure how to find your first and last frost dates, consult our blog post 'Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources.'
How to Sow and Plant
Select a location with well-draining soil and ample sunlight. Gently remove the plant start from its container and plant it at the same depth as it was growing previously. Space plants 12-18 inches apart to ensure proper air circulation. Water thoroughly after planting and mulch lightly to retain soil moisture.
How to Grow
Maintain soil moisture by watering consistently, especially during dry spells. Avoid waterlogging the soil, as basil roots are prone to rot. Fertilize monthly with a balanced, organic fertilizer. Pinch off the top sets of leaves regularly to promote branching. Since Perpetuo basil does not flower, you can harvest leaves all season without worrying about the plant bolting.
How to Save
- Take a 4-6 inch cutting from a healthy, mature Perpetuo basil plant.
- Remove leaves from the lower half of the cutting.
- Place the cutting in a glass of water, ensuring at least 2 inches are submerged.
- Position in a warm, bright location out of direct sunlight.
- Change the water every few days.
- Roots will develop in 2-3 weeks; transplant to soil when roots are 1-2 inches long.
FAQ
Can I grow Perpetuo basil indoors?
Yes! Perpetuo basil grows well indoors if given bright, indirect sunlight for at least 6 hours a day. Use a well-draining potting mix, keep the soil moist, and maintain indoor temperatures between 65°F and 75°F.
How often should I harvest Perpetuo basil?
You can harvest Perpetua basil continuously throughout the growing season. Regular harvesting encourages bushy growth. For best results, trim the top leaves every couple of weeks and never remove more than one-third of the plant at a time.
What makes Perpetuo basil different from other basil varieties?
Perpetuo basil stands out due to its intense flavor and ability to produce leaves all season without flowering or going to seed. Its columnar growth habit makes it ideal for small gardens, and it must be propagated through cuttings rather than seeds.
