This East Indian annual grows about 1 ft. high. It is raised from seeds sown in gentle heat in March and April, the seedlings being transferred to the open ground at the end of May or early in June, 6 to 8 in. apart every way, in light rich soil. The highly aromatic ovate lance-shaped leaves are used for flavouring.

Fig. 500 - Sweet Basil. (1/5).

The shoots are cut before the flowers open and are tied in bunches to dry off for winter use. The Bush Basil (0. minimum) is a much dwarfer and more compact-growing plant with smaller leaves. It is raised and treated in the same way as the Sweet Basil.