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Ocimum basilicum
A dazzling cross of Mrihani and Opalescent Basils. With this breeding project are working to select the sweet, nutty and anise-like flavors of Mrihani with the gorgeous deep purple leaves of Opalescent Basil. We had first grown out Mrihani several years ago from a seed stock containing stunning swirls of purple and green on the leaves. Since then we unfortunately could not source Mrihani with that same coloring. Our quest to re-encounter those mesmerizing multi-colored striations led us to Frank Morton’s solid purple Opalescent Basil, a fifth generation crossing of Mrihani and Opal Sweet Basil. We are hoping that back-crossing this purple basil of Mrihani heritage to Mrihani proper will encourage the wonderous patterns to emerge again after a few years of selection. In the meantime, enjoy these two extraordinary basils and what exciting crossings the first generation will bring!
Growing Information:
Germination of these seeds are light dependent (photoblastic). When sowing, gently press down the soil to create a shallow indent, sprinkle seeds and lightly cover with soil. Do not bury too deep and be sure to keep the surface of your trays moist as you await your seeds to germinate. When watering, use the mist setting on a sprayer hose to gently moisten without too much pressure. Using a spray bottle with water is also a good idea. Heavy water pressure may push the surface sown seeds out of the trays!
Sow indoors 4-6 weeks before last frost in 50 cell trays or four packs (any larger cell will do).
Transplant outdoors after last frost.
Space plants 12 inches apart.
Space rows 15-18 inches apart.
Moderate soil fertility. Add a good compost at time of planting. We recommend preparing the bed with a legume cover crop to add nitrogen.
