Cardinal basil, Ocimum Basilicum Per Oz

Cardinal basil is a tall variety with an upright, bushy growth pattern that can reach up to 75 centimeters in height and spread up to 45 centimeters wide. The plant has deep burgundy-colored stems and thick, oval, bright-green leaves. When the plant is mature, it produces tightly-packed, pagoda-shaped flower clusters at the crown of its stems that range in color from magenta to dark red. Cardinal basil leaves are spicier than common basil, with an anise or licorice-like flavor and a spicy aroma. Both the leaves and the reddish-purple leaflike flower bracts are edible and have the best flavor just before the plant flowers, though a bitter taste can develop as soon as the plant blooms. Seasons/AvailabilityCardinal basil is available in late spring through early fall.Cardinal basil is botanically classified as Ocimum basilicum ‘cardinal’ in the mint family and is named after the bird with similarly rich red shades. Not only is Cardinal basil grown for its edible leaves, but also for its