8-Purple Thai Basil

Popular Thai Basil

Variety Distinctive Characteristics
Siam Queen Large green leaves, purple stems, and purple flowers
Sweet Thai Traditional Thai basil flavor and purple stems
Queenette Compact growth and aromatic foliage
Thai Basil Narrow green leaves and purple stems
Purple-leaved Thai-type basil Purple or purplish foliage with Thai basil characteristics.

Important botanical distinction: Thai Basil and Purple Basil are not necessarily the same variety. Traditional Thai Basil generally has green leaves and purple stems, while purple-leaved basil cultivars may have predominantly purple foliage. Holy Basil (Ocimum tenuiflorum), also called Tulsi, is another distinct basil species. tenuiflorum), also called Tulsi, is another distinct basil species.

Purple Thai Basil (Ocimum basilicum, Thai basil type) is an aromatic, edible, and ornamental herb characterized by purple stems, green to purplish-green leaves, and purple flower spikes. It has a distinctive sweet, spicy, anise-like fragrance and is widely used in Thai and Southeast Asian cooking.

Interesting fact: Thai Basil contains aromatic compounds that help maintain its distinctive flavor during cooking. Unlike ordinary sweet basil, its anise-like flavor remains noticeable in hot stir-fried dishes and soups.