Basil Seeds - Purple Dark Opal Basil

Seed Count: 200 Seeds
Maturity: 60-70 Days from Planting
Growth Habit: Upright, bushy annual herb with striking purple and green foliage.
Plant Dimensions: Mature plants reach a height of 12-18 inches.
Color Palette: Dark purple leaves with subtle lilac flowers atop red stems, creating a stunning contrast against green foliage.
Aroma & Flavor: Classic basil flavor with a subtle peppery note, adding depth to culinary creations.
Uses: Ideal for salads, vinegars, sauces, oils, and elegant garnishes.
Plant Type: Annual herb; valued for its culinary versatility and ornamental beauty.
Growing Conditions: Thrives in full sun with well-draining soil.

History & Heritage:
Purple Dark Opal Basil is a stunning Italian basil variety cherished for its deep purple coloration and versatile culinary applications. Developed as a variant of traditional basil, it has been a favorite in Italian gardens and kitchens for generations. Its dual-purpose nature as both a culinary herb and ornamental plant has made it a staple in gardens around the world, adding both flavor and visual appeal.

Culinary Versatility:
Purple Dark Opal Basil offers a unique twist on traditional basil. Its deep purple leaves and subtle peppery flavor enhance a variety of dishes, from fresh summer salads to robust sauces. Use its leaves to create zesty vinegar infusions, vibrant oils, or as a striking garnish for culinary presentations. Beyond its flavor, the rich color of its leaves adds elegance and visual appeal to any dish, making it as beautiful as it is delicious.

Planting & Growth Tips:
Growing Purple Dark Opal Basil is simple, offering a steady supply of flavorful and visually stunning leaves throughout the season. Follow these tips for successful cultivation:

• Planting: Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep in well-draining soil after the last frost. Alternatively, start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks prior and transplant outdoors once the soil has warmed.
• Spacing: Space plants 10-12 inches apart to allow for bushy growth and proper airflow.
• Soil: Use fertile, well-draining soil enriched with organic matter. Maintain a pH between 6.0-7.0 for optimal growth.
• Sunlight: Provide full sun exposure for vibrant leaf color and strong growth.
• Watering: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, especially during germination and dry periods.
• Care: Regularly harvest leaves to promote bushier growth and prevent flowering. Pinch off flower buds if growing primarily for leaves, or allow flowers to bloom to attract pollinators.
• Harvesting: Pick leaves as needed throughout the growing season. Harvest early in the morning for the best flavor and aroma.

Why Grow Purple Dark Opal Basil?
Purple Dark Opal Basil combines bold flavor, stunning aesthetics, and ease of cultivation, making it a standout herb for any garden. Its striking purple leaves and lilac flowers add elegance to garden beds and containers, while its versatile flavor enhances a wide range of dishes. Easy to grow and highly productive, this basil variety is perfect for gardeners and cooks looking to elevate their culinary creations and beautify their garden spaces. Add Purple Dark Opal Basil to your garden for a flavorful and visually striking harvest.