4-Lemon Basil

Lemon Basil (Ocimum × africanum)
Lemon Basil is an aromatic culinary herb known for its refreshing lemon-like fragrance and citrus flavor. It belongs to the mint family (Lamiaceae) and is widely used in Southeast Asian cuisine.

It is characterized by bright green leaves, branching stems, and small white flowers. It is cultivated for its edible leaves, aromatic properties, and ornamental value.

Characteristic :Description
Common name :Lemon Basil
Botanical name :Ocimum × africanum Lour.
Synonym Ocimum × citriodorum
Family :Lamiaceae
Genus: Ocimum
Species: Hybrid of O. americanum × O. basilicum
Plant type :Aromatic herb
Life cycle: Annual or short-lived perennial
Origin: Tropical and subtropical Asia
Plant height :30–100 cm
Plant spread: 20–50 cm
Growth habit :Upright and bushy
Leaf color: Light green to bright green
Stem color: Green
Flower color :White to pale purple
Fragrance: Fresh lemon or citrus scent
Propagation :Seeds and stem cuttings

Botanical Characteristics

A. Leaves

• Simple and opposite leaf arrangement.
• Elliptical to lance-shaped.
• Bright green to light green coloration.
• Pointed leaf tips.
• Smooth or slightly hairy leaf surfaces.
• Strong lemon-like fragrance when crushed.

B. Stems

• Upright and highly branched.
• Green to slightly yellowish-green.
• Square-shaped stems, typical of the mint family.
• May have fine hairs on the stem surface.

C. Flowers

• Small, tubular flowers.
• White to pale purple coloration.
• Arranged in terminal flower spikes.
• Attractive to beneficial insects.

D. Roots

• Fibrous and branched root system.
• Requires well-drained growing media.
• Sensitive to prolonged waterlogging.

Uses of Lemon Basil

A. Culinary Uses

• Used in soups and stews.
• Added to fish and chicken dishes.
• Used in curry preparations.
• Added to salads and noodle dishes.
• Used in herbal tea.
• Used as a flavoring for rice and pasta.
• Seeds can be soaked in water and incorporated into traditional Filipino desserts.

B. Ornamental Uses

• Suitable for herb gardens.
• Can be grown in containers and pots.
• Used in garden borders.
• Suitable for fragrant gardens.
• Attractive as a foliage plant.

C. Aromatic Uses

• Used in potpourri.
• Used in fragrant herbal arrangements.
• Its leaves are valued for their refreshing citrus aroma.