Dark opal basil is a cultivar of Ocimum basilicum (sweet basil), developed by John Scarchuk and Joseph Lent at the University of Connecticut, in the 1950s. With deep purple, sometimes mottled leaves, it is grown as much for its decorative appeal as for its culinary value. Dark opal basil was a 1962 winner of the All-American Selection award.
Dark Opal basil is aromatic, bearing a spice-forward, clove-like scent, and the leaves have a sweet, savory, and earthy flavor with notes of anise, ginger, cinnamon, clove, and mint.
Light. Unless you live in particularly hot regions, your dark opal basil will appreciate a full sun position. Ideally, they'll want at least six hours of full sun to thrive.
Plant seeds of this basil in a light, well-draining soil that's amended with well-composted materials. Allow 3 to 14 days for germination. Move into a partially sunny spot as leaves develop. Keep the soil consistently moist while germinating, but not wet, as young plants may damp off and fail.
Height at Maturity: Dark Purple Opal Basil plants reach 30-45 cm (12 -18") tall. Spread is about 30 cm (12) wide. Days to Maturity: 65 days.
