Cinnamon Basil arranged in a ceramic container with honey on a white background.
An arrangement of flowering Cinnamon Basil with some cinnamon sticks against a white brick wall.
Cinnamon Basil blooming in the gardens at Baker Creek.
A close-up view of Cinnamon Basil blooms and leaves with cinnamon sticks.
Cinnamon Basil arranged in a ceramic container with honey on a white background.
An arrangement of flowering Cinnamon Basil with some cinnamon sticks against a white brick wall.
Cinnamon Basil blooming in the gardens at Baker Creek.
A close-up view of Cinnamon Basil blooms and leaves with cinnamon sticks.

Basil Seeds,
Cinnamon

4.442 ReviewsSKU: #HB104Min. seed count: 100
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Description

(Ocimum basilicum). A cinnamon twist on one of our favorite garden herbs. Cinnamon basil is believed to have originated in Mexico, and indeed there are many recipes and uses for this piquant basil in Mexican cuisine. The light cinnamon and anise flavor adds the perfect touch to fruit salads, desserts, and savory preparations. The leaves make a soothing cup of tea. Cinnamon basil contains many vitamins and minerals. It also attracts a wide range of pollinators.

Growing Tips: Cinnamon basil thrives in heat and requires full sun, needing at least 8-12 hours of direct sunlight daily. It grows best in well-draining, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0-7.5. Remove flower buds promptly to allow the plants to grow faster and produce more flavorful leaves. Regular pruning or pinching back encourages bushier plants and prolongs the harvest as well.

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 Cinnamon Basil seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost date in your region. Once warm conditions have arrived and nighttime temperatures consistently remain above 50 F, seedlings can be set out at any size. In warm climates, seeds can also be sown directly in the garden once the risk of frost has passed. This heat-loving variety thrives during the warm summer months, so plant it when the soil has adequately warmed. 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

Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep in seed trays or directly in prepared garden beds after the last frost. Keep soil temperatures between 70 to 85°F for germination, which takes 6 to 10 days. Space seedlings 8 to 12 inches apart. Harden off seedlings gradually for 7 to 10 days before transplanting them outdoors. Set out seedlings at any size, as long as the conditions are warm. Keep the soil consistently moist during germination and early growth.

How to Grow

Water regularly to keep the soil evenly moist, but avoid waterlogging. Enrich the soil with compost or fertilize every 2 to 4 weeks to encourage vigorous growth and robust flavor. Pinch off flower buds promptly to extend the harvest and direct the plant's energy into leaf production. Picking flower spikes early in the summer helps the plants grow more quickly and keeps the leaves tender and flavorful. This heat-loving basil variety grows best in full sun and warm conditions, so avoid exposing it to cool temperatures.

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

What does Cinnamon basil taste like?

It has a warm, slightly sweet, and spicy flavor, combining a cinnamon-like aroma with the herbal notes of traditional basil.

How long does Cinnamon basil take to mature?

It matures in 60 to 70 days, but you can begin harvesting leaves as early as 3 to 4 weeks after germination.

Can Cinnamon basil grow well in containers?

Yes, as long as it has well-draining soil and receives full sun (8 to 12 hours daily). Choose a pot that has sufficient drainage and water regularly to keep the soil moist.

Browse our full range of basil seeds.
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