Dark Opal Basil – 100 Seeds

Dark Opal Basil Seeds. With deep purple, sometimes mottled leaves, Dark Opal Basil (Ocimum basilicum ‘Dark Opal’) is grown as much for its decorative appeal as for its culinary value. This basil was a 1962 winner of the All-American Selection award.

The leaves are egg-shaped with sparsely toothed edges and a variable purple to burgundy color. The color of the basil intensifies with maturity, although variegated green leaves are considered normal in this basil.

Culinary Uses

• This hybrid basil variety has a slightly stronger anise flavor than the common green sweet basil, with mild ginger undertones and a potent aroma.
• This basil is considered savory when compared to the standard sweet basil and is used for it flavor and color alike.

Growing Dark Opal Basil

Indoor Sowing: Late Winter and Early Spring.

Direct Sowing: Spring and Summer.

• Sow indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost in spring
• Sow Basil Seeds evenly by covering them with 0.5 cm of soil.
• Keep the soil moist.
• The basil seeds should germinate within a week.