Sweet basil (Ocimum basilicum) is a versatile herb with a wealth of culinary uses. Basil grows well in a pot and can be placed in a sunny corner by the kitchen window or on the patio. Plant out in clay pots or window boxes outdoors in a sunny corner. Its sweet-smelling leaves are delicious in stews, soups, salads and pizzas; it is also an essential ingredient for Italian sauces for pasta and for pesto.
At first basil grows slowly, so pinch the top so it bushes out. This encourages good leaf growth, and after all, it is for its leaves that you want basil, although it has white to purple, scented flowers. There are