Basil
Ocimum basilicum
Varieties We Bring In
Last received Sep 23, 2026.
We bring this in seasonally, so what is on the lot changes week to week. A received date shows when it last came in, not that it is here today.
Call (904) 471-0440 to confirm this plant and size before you make the trip.
About Basil
Basil (Ocimum basilicum) is an aromatic annual herb native to tropical Asia and Africa, grown worldwide for its intensely fragrant leaves used fresh or dried in cooking. Dozens of cultivars offer foliage ranging from large-leafed Genovese types to compact globe forms and purple-leaved varieties. Starting at $1.89.
Plant details
- Bloom Season
- Spring, Summer, Fall
- Flower Color
- White
- Growth Rate
- Fast
- Foliage
- Annual
- Soil
- Sandy, Loam, Well-drained
Best planting months
Seasonal care
Good planting window.
Bloom season.
Growth slows as temperatures cool.
Retains foliage through winter.
Care essentials
Basil requires full sun (6+ hours daily) and is a warm-season crop in NE Florida. Plant after last frost (late February–March) and again in late summer (August–September) for a fall harvest; summer heat can cause early bolting.
Water basil consistently to keep soil evenly moist but never waterlogged; about 1 inch per week is typical. In NE Florida's sandy soil, frequent watering and mulching help retain moisture during hot summers.
Grow in well-drained, fertile soil at pH 6.0–7.0. Amend sandy NE Florida soil with compost before planting. Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) every 2–3 weeks; avoid excess nitrogen once plants are established to prevent leaf flavor dilution.
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Common questions
Is Basil a good plant for St. Augustine?
Basil is a herb for Zone 9b coastal Florida gardens, reaching 1-3 feet × 1-2 feet (varies by variety).
Care information verified from
Last reviewed February 2026. Our care guidance comes from trusted horticulture sources and decades of helping St. Augustine gardeners. Conditions here can vary dramatically from one area to the next, so come ask us and we'll tailor it to your yard.