Dark Opal Basil Seed

Product ID:902.11902

Quick Facts

Latin Name

Ocimum basilicum

Days To Maturity

Days To Maturity

Average number of days from seeding date to harvest, within a specific crop group. If a transplanted crop: average number of days from transplant date. Not sure if crop is direct-seeded or transplanted? Check the Growing Information box for details. If crop can be both direct-seeded or transplanted, days to maturity refers to direct seeding. Days to maturity for all flowers and herbs is calculated from seeding date.

Close

70 Days

Life Cycle

Life Cycle

Plants can be Annuals (single growing season), Perennials (grow year after year), Tender Perennials (grow year after year in warmer climates; and in some cases when given special protection in colder climates), or Biennials (require two years to mature).

Close

Annual

Hybrid Status

Hybrid Status

Hybrid: The offspring of a cross between two or more distinct parent lines, usually of same species, and selected for improved traits.
Open-pollinated: A non-hybrid variety that can reproduce itself in kind, demonstrating relatively stable traits from one generation to the next.

Close

Open Pollinated

Product Features

Product Features

Use for Cut Flowers and Bouquets Use for Cut Flowers and Bouquets
Variety good for fresh cut-flower displays.
Edible Flowers Edible Flowers
Variety's flowers may be consumed.
AAS (All-America Selections) Winners AAS (All-America Selections) Winners
All-America Selections is an independent, non-profit organization that tests new, never-before-sold crop varieties, and then introduces only the best garden performers as AAS Winners.
Close

Use for Cut Flowers and Bouquets Edible Flowers AAS (All-America Selections) Winners

Dark Opal Basil Seed

Product ID:902.11902

Fast-growing red basil.

Slightly ruffled plants are mostly purple, with 10% variegated or all green for a great color combo. Leaves avg. 1 1/2-3" at full size. Red leaves and purple flowers make attractive garnishes and cut flowers. AAS Winner. Ht. 16-18".

  • Edible Flowers: Use the flowers in any recipe that calls for basil, or to garnish drinks, salads, soups, pasta, and desserts. Flavor is of intense basil.

Specs:

  • Packet: 200 seeds
  • Avg. 21,800 seeds/oz

Quick Facts

Latin Name

Ocimum basilicum

Days To Maturity

Days To Maturity

Average number of days from seeding date to harvest, within a specific crop group. If a transplanted crop: average number of days from transplant date. Not sure if crop is direct-seeded or transplanted? Check the Growing Information box for details. If crop can be both direct-seeded or transplanted, days to maturity refers to direct seeding. Days to maturity for all flowers and herbs is calculated from seeding date.

Close

70 Days

Life Cycle

Life Cycle

Plants can be Annuals (single growing season), Perennials (grow year after year), Tender Perennials (grow year after year in warmer climates; and in some cases when given special protection in colder climates), or Biennials (require two years to mature).

Close

Annual

Hybrid Status

Hybrid Status

Hybrid: The offspring of a cross between two or more distinct parent lines, usually of same species, and selected for improved traits.
Open-pollinated: A non-hybrid variety that can reproduce itself in kind, demonstrating relatively stable traits from one generation to the next.

Close

Open Pollinated

Product Features

Product Features

Use for Cut Flowers and Bouquets Use for Cut Flowers and Bouquets
Variety good for fresh cut-flower displays.
Edible Flowers Edible Flowers
Variety's flowers may be consumed.
AAS (All-America Selections) Winners AAS (All-America Selections) Winners
All-America Selections is an independent, non-profit organization that tests new, never-before-sold crop varieties, and then introduces only the best garden performers as AAS Winners.
Close

Use for Cut Flowers and Bouquets Edible Flowers AAS (All-America Selections) Winners

DAYS TO GERMINATION:

5-10 days at 65-70°F (18-21°C).

SOWING:

Direct seed (recommended): Plant seeds 1/4" deep, 2-3 seeds per inch, in rows 18" apart. Firm the soil over the seeds. Thinning is not necessary, but a final spacing of 4-8" apart produces healthy, full plants. Note: Holy Basil requires some light for germination, so sow more shallowly than other basils. Transplant: Sow indoors 6 weeks prior to setting out. Plant 1/4" deep and keep at 70°F (21°C) for best germination. Transplant to the field when seedlings have 3-4 sets of leaves, spacing at 4-8" apart in rows 18" apart.

LIGHT PREFERENCE:

Sun.

SOIL REQUIREMENTS:

Moderately rich, moist soil. Basil is not drought tolerant and can be damaged by heat stress. Regular moisture throughout the growing season helps to ensure a good crop.

PLANT HEIGHT:

Varies. See the product description for exact heights.

PLANT SPACING:

4-8".

HARDINESS ZONES:

Annual.

HARVEST:

Begin light harvesting after plants have become established. It is best done in the early morning when the temperature is cooler and the leaves are less likely to wilt. A full harvest should be completed just before the plants start to flower. Cut the entire plant 4-6" above the ground to promote a second growth. Leaves are easily bruised when picking, so handle carefully. Do not store at a temperature less than 50°F (10°C).

PELLETED SEED:

If using pelleted seed, we recommend consistent soil moisture during the germination period. Pelleted seed must be kept cool and dry prior to planting, and should be used within one year of purchase.

SCIENTIFIC NAME:

Ocimum spp.

Johnny's is committed to your success, every step of the way.

We want you, our customer, to be 100% satisfied with all of our seeds, tools, and supplies. 

If anything you purchase from us proves unsatisfactory, we will either replace the item or refund the purchase price.