Thai Holy Kaprao Basil arranged in a glass jar with foliage on a white background.
A close-up macro view showing the flowers and leaves of Thai Holy Kaprao Basil.
Thai Holy Kaprao Basil arranged on a white background.
A bundle of Thai Holy Kaprao Basil with a metal Thai container on wood.
A macro close-up of tiny Thai Holy Kaprao Basil flowers on white.
An arrangement of Thai Holy Kaprao Basil in a white container on a jade background.
A close-up view of Thai Holy Kaprao Basil in the garden at Baker Creek.
Thai Holy Kaprao Basil arranged in a glass jar with foliage on a white background.
A close-up macro view showing the flowers and leaves of Thai Holy Kaprao Basil.
Thai Holy Kaprao Basil arranged on a white background.
A bundle of Thai Holy Kaprao Basil with a metal Thai container on wood.
A macro close-up of tiny Thai Holy Kaprao Basil flowers on white.
An arrangement of Thai Holy Kaprao Basil in a white container on a jade background.
A close-up view of Thai Holy Kaprao Basil in the garden at Baker Creek.

Basil Seeds,
Thai Holy Kaprao

3.830 ReviewsSKU: #HB142Min. seed count: 100
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Description

(Ocimum tenuiflorum). A bold and intense, authentic type of Thai basil difficult to find outside Asia. The delicate, slightly hairy leaves of this distinct variety are highly revered in Thailand for their piquant flavor. Its flavor notes of clove and black pepper make it much less sweet than the Thai Sweet basil, lending robust flavor to a multitude of dishes.

Growing Tips: Thai Holy Kaprao basil thrives in warm, sunny conditions. It prefers rich, well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. This basil variety is highly sensitive to cold, so plant it in warm weather when all chances of frost have passed. Regular pruning helps prevent flowering and encourages bushy growth, ensuring a longer harvest window. Pinch off flower buds early to enhance the leaf flavor.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Ocimum tenuiflorum
Life Cycle
Annual
Sun Requirement
Full sun
Days to Germinate
10–12
Days to Maturity
60–75
Planting Depth
¼ in.
Plant Spacing
6–8 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 them into the garden once nighttime temperatures consistently remain above 50 F. Alternatively, in warmer climates, you can direct sow the seeds outdoors after the last frost. Check your local area’s frost dates to time your planting accurately. Thai Holy Kaprao basil grows best during the warm summer months and will struggle in cooler conditions. Learn more about your region’s frost dates by checking out our blog post, ‘Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources.’

How to Sow and Plant

Surface sow seeds in seed trays or directly into garden soil after frost danger has passed. For indoor starts, use a seed-starting mix and keep the soil consistently moist with temperatures around 70 to 85°F for germination. Space plants 6 to 8 inches apart in the garden to allow airflow and adequate growth. Before transplanting seedlings, harden them off by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions for 7 to 10 days.

How to Grow

Water Thai Holy Kaprao basil regularly, keeping the soil evenly moist but not soggy. Fertilize every 2 to 4 weeks with a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer or enrich the soil with compost before planting. Regularly pinch back the plant's top leaves to encourage bushier growth and delay flowering. To protect against pests like aphids and spider mites, use organic pest control methods such as neem oil or insecticidal soap. Companion planting with tomatoes or peppers can also help 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 Thai Holy Kaprao basil indoors?

Yes, Thai Holy basil can be grown indoors with adequate sunlight (at least 6 to 12 hours daily) or supplemental grow lights.

How long does Thai Holy Kaprao basil take to mature?

It matures in 60 to 75 days, but you can begin harvesting leaves once the plant reaches 6 to 8 inches tall, typically about 3 to 4 weeks after germination.

How do I keep Thai Holy Kaprao basil from bolting?

Regularly prune or pinch off the tops of the plants to prevent flowering and extend the harvest window.

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