Large Leaf Italian Basil seeds
This variety of basil is native to Europe but has been used in the U.S since the 1700s. It's been called the official authentic Neapolitan basil of Italian cuisine. Large-leaf Italian basil can be used dried or fresh. You will have double the yields of basil since these leaves are more than double the size of traditional basil. Each leaf will span 3"-4" inches across.
The flavor is very similar to Genovese varieties, but a little bit sweeter. This has earned it the secondary name of "sweet basil". This basil pairs perfectly with the Florentine tomato (see our listing for Costuleto Florentino tomato) for making top-notch Italian sauces for pasta dishes.
Like other basil varieties, this makes a great companion plant for tomatoes. It is said it will improve the flavor of your tomatoes. In addition, basil has a strong scent that masks the odors of your other veggies, making it difficult for pests to find since they locate plants by the smell from miles away.
Seed count: 250
Botanic name:
Ocimum basilicum
Plant spacing:
4"-8" apart
Color:
Large green leaves
Sowing depth:
1/4 inch
Sun requirements:
Full sun / part shade
Utilization:
Herb salads, dressings, garnishes, desserts, dried, and used in tomato sauces.
Frost Hardy:
No
Maturity days:
70-75 days
Life cycle:
Annual
Can I start indoors:
Yes
Container friendly:
Yes
Other names:
Genovese Gigante, sweet basil
Vine Habit: