Basil Lemon leaves with small white flowers on a white background
Lemon Basil sprig with leaves and flowers on a white background.
A Baker Creek gardener holding a bouquet of fragrant Lemon Basil.
Lemon Basil ice cream with lemons and basil on a light background.
Lemon Basil with lemon slices in a clear vase on a white background.
Lemon Basil growing and blooming in the garden at Baker Creek.
A glass vase full of Lemon Basil and lemon slices with basil ice cream in the background.
Basil Lemon leaves with small white flowers on a white background
Lemon Basil sprig with leaves and flowers on a white background.
A Baker Creek gardener holding a bouquet of fragrant Lemon Basil.
Lemon Basil ice cream with lemons and basil on a light background.
Lemon Basil with lemon slices in a clear vase on a white background.
Lemon Basil growing and blooming in the garden at Baker Creek.
A glass vase full of Lemon Basil and lemon slices with basil ice cream in the background.

Basil Seeds,
Lemon

4.636 ReviewsSKU: #HB107Min. seed count: 100
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Description

(Ocimum x africanum). Vibrant and flavorful lemon basil is an herb that will add zip and zest to your cooking. It is a highly regarded culinary ingredient across the globe and one of our favorites for fusion and experimental cuisine. In Laos, it is known as pak i tao; its leaves are used in soups, stews, and countless other dishes, and the seeds are soaked and made into a dessert. Lemon basil is essential to many Asian dishes and is highly fragrant.

Growing Tips: Lemon basil thrives in warm, sunny environments with at least 8-12 hours of direct sunlight daily. It grows best in nutrient-rich, well-draining soil with a pH of 6.0-7.5. This heat-loving plant is highly sensitive to cold, so avoid exposing it to temperatures below 50 F. Prune regularly and remove flowers as they appear to help prolong the plant’s productivity and enhance the flavor of the leaves.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Ocimum x africanum
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 Lemon basil seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost date in your area, then transplant them into the garden once all danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed up. In regions with mild winters or long growing seasons, seeds can be directly sown outdoors after the last frost date. Proper timing is very important, as Lemon Basil prefers warm conditions and won’t survive cold temperatures. If you’re unsure of your last frost date, consult our blog post ‘Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources.’

How to Sow and Plant

To start Lemon basil indoors, sow seeds 1/4 inch deep in seed trays filled with light, well-draining seed-starting mix. Maintain soil temperatures between 70 to 85°F for germination. Set out seedlings at any size, when warm conditions have arrived. Space them 8 to 12 inches apart in the garden to ensure adequate airflow. Harden off seedlings to prevent transplant shock. Keep soil consistently moist during germination and early growth.

How to Grow

Water regularly to keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy, as overwatering can lead to root rot. Pinch off the top leaves frequently to prevent the plant from flowering (bolting), which can reduce flavor and leaf production. Pests like aphids and whiteflies can be managed with organic pest control methods, such as neem oil or insecticidal soap. Companion planting with tomatoes or peppers can also deter pests naturally.

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 grow Lemon basil indoors?

Yes, Lemon basil can be grown indoors if provided with enough sunlight (at least 8 to 12 hours daily) or supplemented with grow lights.

How often should I water Lemon basil?

Keep the soil consistently moist but avoid overwatering. Allow the top inch of soil to dry slightly between waterings to prevent root rot.

How do I use Lemon basil in cooking?

Lemon basil is incredibly versatile and can be used in teas, marinades, dressings, pestos, salads, desserts, and even cocktails, adding a bright, citrusy note to dishes.

Browse our full range of basil seeds.
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