Evivi Ntor Basil in a small vase with leaves on a white background.
Evivi Ntor Basil in a vase by a pitcher full of tea.
Overhead narrow depth of field view of Evivi Ntor Basil in a vase on light wood.
Evivi Ntor Basil in a small vase with leaves on a white background.
Evivi Ntor Basil in a vase by a pitcher full of tea.
Overhead narrow depth of field view of Evivi Ntor Basil in a vase on light wood.

Basil Seeds,
Evivi Ntor

52 ReviewsSKU: #HB310Min. seed count: 100
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Description

(Ocimum basilicum). This peppery and piquant heirloom, traditionally grown by the people of the Ewe tribe in Ghana, West Africa, presents a concerto of delightful aromas and has many delicious culinary uses. Evivi Ntor means “very tasty” in the Ewe language and we must agree! The flavor is floral with a hint of pine and citrus, nuanced and bold! This particular variety is among many others in the area that are disappearing. It is traditionally used in soups, stews, sauces, juices and also to flavor local drinks. We have found this unique and delicious basil to be a stellar choice for culinary experimentation! Solomon Amuzu, of Call to Nature Permaculture in Ghana, received a sample of seeds from an 86-year-old Ewe woman, and he decided to revive and proliferate this treasured basil before it is lost. 

Growing Tips: This hardy basil variety also thrives as an ornamental plant, producing small, glossy leaves and delicate flowers. Evivi Ntor basil is heat- and drought-tolerant, making it ideal for warm-weather gardens, and it attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies. It grows best in fertile, well-draining soil with a pH of 6.0-7.5.

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

Evivi Ntor basil should be planted only after the danger of frost has passed. Seeds can be started indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost date to get a head start or sown directly outdoors when the soil has warmed in late spring. For the best results, check your local frost dates to determine the optimal planting time. This variety thrives in warm weather and does not tolerate cold conditions. 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 the seeds directly on the surface of the soil, as they require light to germinate. Indoors, use a seed-starting mix and press the seeds lightly into the soil surface without covering them. Keep the soil moist and maintain a temperature of 70 to 85°F. Germination typically takes 6 to 10 days. For outdoor sowing, prepare a sunny, well-drained garden bed, scatter the seeds, and press them lightly into the soil. Thin or transplant seedlings to 8 to 12 inches apart once they are established.

How to Grow

Evivi Ntor basil thrives in full sun, requiring 8 to 12 hours of direct sunlight daily. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, and add a layer of organic mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Fertilize lightly every couple of weeks with an organic, balanced fertilizer to encourage lush, healthy growth. Regularly pinch off the growing tips and flower buds to encourage bushier plants and extend the harvest. Although the flowers attract pollinators, removing them ensures that the plant focuses on producing flavorful leaves. This basil is well-suited to both garden beds and containers.

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 Evivi Ntor basil in containers?

Yes, it is an excellent choice for container gardening. Use a pot with good drainage and nutrient-rich soil, and place it in a sunny location.

How do I harvest Evivi Ntor basil?

Harvest leaves regularly by pinching or cutting stems just above a set of leaves to encourage bushy growth. Avoid harvesting more than one-third of the plant at a time to allow it to recover.

What pests can affect Evivi Ntor basil?

Basil may occasionally be affected by aphids, spider mites, or whiteflies. Regularly inspect plants, and use insecticidal soap or neem oil to manage pests if necessary.

Browse our full range of basil seeds.

Customer reviews

5 / 5 2 Reviews
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