Holy Thai Basil (Ocimum tenuiflorum) | seeds, approx. 20 pcs.

Perennial

• Latin name: Ocimum tenuiflorum
  
• Danish names: Hellig basilikum, hellig Thai basilikum
• English names: Tulsi, tulasi, holy basil

Ocimum tenuiflorum – also known as holy basil or tulsi – is an aromatic and traditional plant that has been cultivated for thousands of years in South Asia. It plays a central role in Ayurvedic medicine, Hindu culture, and herbalism, and is considered in many places a sacred plant that brings both balance and protection.

The plant is a perennial herb or subshrub, which typically grows 30–60 cm tall. It has slightly hairy stems, green to slightly violet leaves with serrated edges, and a strong, spicy, and slightly clove-like scent. It is also found in a deep red variety - Holy Red Thai Basil (Ocimum tenuiflorum "Krishna Tulsi"). During the summer, it develops beautiful inflorescences with small, light pink to violet flowers, which attract bees and other beneficial insects.

Cultivation and requirements:

Ocimum tenuiflorum is heat-loving and should be grown as an annual outdoors in Denmark or as a perennial in a greenhouse, conservatory, or indoors with plenty of light. It thrives best in full sun and well-drained, nutrient-rich soil. Regular pinching promotes dense and lush growth and prolongs the flowering period.

It does not tolerate frost and should only be planted outdoors once the risk of night frost is completely over. On the other hand, it germinates and grows quickly, and can be harvested continuously throughout the summer.

Cultivation from seeds:

The seeds are small and should be sown superficially on moist seed compost – they must not be covered with soil, but simply pressed lightly onto the surface. Keep at 20–25 °C and with even moisture. Germination usually occurs after 1–2 weeks. When the plants are large enough to handle, they are transplanted into larger containers or in the garden in a warm and sunny spot.

Utility value:

Tulsi is used both fresh and dried in teas, spice blends, and herbal remedies. It is attributed many properties in traditional medicine – from immune-boosting and adaptogenic effects to digestive and calming effects. Regardless of use, Ocimum tenuiflorum is a sensory and culturally rich plant that brings both fragrance, life, and history into the garden or onto the windowsill.

An obvious plant for those interested in herbs, tea lovers, and those who enjoy growing plants with deep roots in both culture and tradition.