3-Crimson King Basil

Crimson King Basil (Ocimum basilicum ‘Crimson King’)
Crimson King Basil is a distinctive purple-leaved variety of sweet basil, developed in England. It is a red Genovese-type basil known for its deep burgundy-purple foliage, strong growth, uniform leaf coloration, and spicy clove-like fragrance.

It is valued as both an edible culinary herb and an ornamental plant. Its attractive foliage makes it suitable for herb gardens, landscape borders, and container gardening.

Characteristic: Description
Common name :Crimson King Basil
Botanical name :Ocimum basilicum ‘Crimson King’
Family: Lamiaceae
Genus :Ocimum
Species :Ocimum basilicum
Plant type: Aromatic herb
Life cycle: Annual
Origin: Bred in England
Plant height :45–75 cm
Plant spread :Approximately 30 cm
Growth habit: Upright and bushy
Leaf color: Deep purple to burgundy
Stem color :Purple to reddish-purple
Flower color :Purple to pinkish-purple
Fragrance: Spicy, clove-like basil aroma
Propagation: Seeds and stem cuttings

Botanical Characteristics

Leaves

• Simple and opposite leaf arrangement.
• Broad, oval-shaped leaves.
• Deep purple to burgundy coloration.
• Slightly cupped or wrinkled leaf surfaces.
• Aromatic leaves with a spicy clove-like scent.
• Uniform purple foliage compared with many other purple basil varieties.

Stems

• Upright and branching growth.
• Square-shaped stems, characteristic of the mint family.
• Reddish-purple to dark purple coloration.
• Strong stems that support the plant’s upright growth.

Flowers

• Small tubular flowers.
• Purple or pinkish-purple coloration.
• Arranged in terminal flower spikes.
• Attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.

Roots

• Branched fibrous root system.
• Requires well-drained soil.
• Sensitive to prolonged waterlogging.

Uses of Crimson King Basil

Culinary Uses

• Used in pesto preparation.
• Added to salads and sandwiches.
• Used in pasta dishes and sauces.
• Added to soups and marinades.
• Used as a garnish for different dishes.
• Can be used fresh or dried.

Ornamental Uses

• Suitable for ornamental herb gardens.
• Attractive in flower beds and landscape borders.
• Ideal for container gardening.
• Provides contrast when planted alongside green-leaved herbs.
• Suitable for decorative garden arrangements.

Aromatic Uses

• Used in fragrant gardens.
• Fresh leaves provide a pleasant spicy aroma.
• Can be incorporated into potpourri and aromatic arrangements.