Cardinal Basil resting on a white background.
A vase full of Cardinal Basil blooms with curry in a bowl on light background.
A little boy peeks through a large bouquet of Cardinal Basil in the garden.
A Baker Creek gardener holding a bouquet full of Cardinal Basil.
A Baker Greek gardener holding a giant bouquet of Cardinal Basil.
Cardinal Basil resting on a white background.
A vase full of Cardinal Basil blooms with curry in a bowl on light background.
A little boy peeks through a large bouquet of Cardinal Basil in the garden.
A Baker Creek gardener holding a bouquet full of Cardinal Basil.
A Baker Greek gardener holding a giant bouquet of Cardinal Basil.

Basil Seeds,
Cardinal

4.851 ReviewsSKU: #HB224Min. seed count: 35
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Description

(Ocimum basilicum). A delicious, fragrant culinary basil that produces huge, rich purple flower heads! These are fantastic in flower arrangements. Try the spicy-sweet leaves in your favorite recipes. They are perfect for salads, soups, and curries, and leaves go well in many Mexican and Asian foods. A magnificent and grand variety for your garden and kitchen. Amazing flavor! Developed in Israel.

Growing Tips: Cardinal basil thrives in warm, sunny conditions, and needs 8-12 hours of direct sunlight daily. It grows best in well-draining, fertile soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. Consistent moisture is key, but the soil should never become soggy. To encourage lush, bushy growth, pinch off the growing tips of the plant regularly and remove any flowers unless you're growing it for ornamental purposes.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Ocimum basilicum
Life Cycle
Annual
Sun Requirement
Full sun
Days to Germinate
6–10
Days to Maturity
60–75
Planting Depth
¼ in.
Plant Spacing
8–12 in.
Ideal Temperature
70–85°F
Frost Hardy
No

When to Grow

Start seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost date in your area. Transplant seedlings outdoors when nighttime temperatures consistently stay above 50 F. Alternatively, in regions with warm climates, seeds can be directly sown in the garden after the last frost. If you're unsure of your last frost date, consult our blog post 'Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources.'

How to Sow and Plant

Sow Cardinal basil seeds 1/4 inch deep in seed trays or directly in the garden once the risk of frost has passed. Keep the soil temperature between 70 to 85°F for germination, which takes about 6 to 10 days. Set out seedlings at any size, when warm conditions have arrived. Space them 8 to 12 inches apart to ensure proper airflow. Harden off seedlings over 7 to 10 days before moving them outdoors.

How to Grow

Water Cardinal basil regularly to keep the soil evenly moist but avoid waterlogging. Apply a balanced fertilizer or compost every 2 to 4 weeks to support growth and promote flavorful leaves. Protect plants from pests like aphids and whiteflies using organic pest control methods such as neem oil or insecticidal soap.

How to Save Seeds

  • Flower heads mature progressively from the bottom of the stem to the top.
  • When the bottom seed head starts to turn brown, the stem can be cut and allowed to dry away from direct sun in a well-ventilated area.
  • Rub dried raceme over a fine wire mesh and winnow off the chaff.
  • Place chaff in a bowl and carefully swirl contents around. Seeds will gather at the bottom of the bowl.
  • Tip the bowl so that the chaff can be discarded and blow the rest out carefully.

FAQ

Can I use the flowers of Cardinal basil?

Yes, the flowers are edible and can be used as a garnish or added to salads. They also attract pollinators and can be used in floral arrangements.

How do I prevent Cardinal basil from bolting?

Regularly pinch off the tops of the plants to delay flowering and maintain the flavor of the leaves for culinary use. Bolting reduces leaf production and flavor intensity.

Is Cardinal basil drought-tolerant?

While Cardinal basil is somewhat drought-tolerant once established, it performs best with consistent moisture in the soil.

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