An arrangement of Blue Spice Basil in a blue glass vase on white.
A close-up of freshly picked Blue Spice Basil.
A Blue Spice Basil leaf with flowers on a white background.
A close-up macro view of Blue Spice Basil with blooms on white background.
A close-up macro view of Blue Spice Basil flowers in the garden at Baker Creek.
An arrangement of Blue Spice Basil in a blue glass vase on white.
A close-up of freshly picked Blue Spice Basil.
A Blue Spice Basil leaf with flowers on a white background.
A close-up macro view of Blue Spice Basil with blooms on white background.
A close-up macro view of Blue Spice Basil flowers in the garden at Baker Creek.

Basil Seeds,
Blue Spice

4.685 ReviewsSKU: #HB200Min. seed count: 100
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Description

(Ocimum americanum x basilicum). With its dense spikes of light purple flowers enclosed in showy deep purple bracts, this vigorous plant is especially beautiful grown in pots or in the garden. Its heavy fragrance with spicy vanilla overtones makes a pleasant contribution to both fruit salads and savory dishes. The most fragrant basil.

Growing Tips: Blue Spice basil is a heat-loving plant that thrives in warm weather and is perfect for pollinator-friendly gardens, attracting bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects. Basil grows best in nutrient-rich, well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0-7.5.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Ocimum americanum x 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

Grow Blue Spice basil during the warm season, as it is highly sensitive to frost. Start seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost date to get a head start, or sow them directly outdoors once the danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed. Check your local area’s frost dates to determine the best planting time. Learn about your area’s hardiness zones and first/last frost dates in our blog post ‘Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources.'

How to Sow and Plant

Sow Blue Spice basil seeds on the soil surface, as they need light to germinate. Indoors, use a seed-starting mix and press the seeds lightly into the soil without covering them. Keep the soil moist and maintain a temperature of 70 to 85°F. Germination takes about 6 to 10 days. For outdoor sowing, prepare a sunny, well-drained garden bed, scatter seeds thinly, and press them lightly into the soil. Once seedlings are established, thin or transplant them to 8 to 12 inches apart for proper airflow and growth.

How to Grow

Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, and apply a layer of organic mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Fertilize lightly with a balanced organic fertilizer every couple of weeks for healthier growth. Regularly pinch off growing tips to encourage bushier growth and delay flowering. Although the lavender flowers are ornamental and attract pollinators, allowing the plant to flower will reduce leaf production and flavor, so remove flower buds for a continuous harvest of leaves.

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

How do I harvest Blue Spice basil?

Harvest leaves regularly by pinching or cutting stems just above a set of leaves to encourage bushy growth. Avoid removing more than one-third of the plant at a time to ensure healthy regrowth.

What pests can affect Blue Spice basil?

Basil may occasionally attract pests such as aphids, spider mites, or whiteflies. Regular inspection and the use of insecticidal soap or neem oil can help control infestations.

Can I grow Blue Spice basil indoors?

Yes, it can be grown indoors if it receives sufficient light. Place it near a sunny window or use grow lights to provide 8 to 12 hours of light per day.

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