

(Annual)
Basil – Red
Bold, beautiful, and bursting with flavour—Red Basil is the showstopper of the herb world. Its striking deep-purple leaves and soft pink blooms make it as ornamental as it is delicious. With the same rich flavour as classic Sweet Basil but an extra splash of colour, it transforms salads, pasta dishes, vinegars, and garnishes into something truly spectacular. If you want a herb that tastes amazing and looks incredible, this is the one.
Planting
• Where: Well-drained soil or a pot in full sun—windowsill, conservatory, or a warm, sheltered garden spot.
• When: After the last frost; Red Basil thrives in heat.
Care
• Watering: Keep well watered while establishing and during dry spells, but avoid soggy compost.
• Protection: Guard against frost, slugs, and snails.
• Feeding: Light feeding can help maintain rich leaf colour if plants begin to pale.
Height & Spread
• Size: 30–45cm tall × 25–40cm wide.
Harvesting
• How: Pinch or snip leaves as needed, ideally in the morning for maximum aroma.
• Tip: Never remove more than one-third of the plant at once to keep it productive.
Top Tips
• Pinch Out Flower Buds to keep plants leafy and flavour-rich.
• Heat Lovers: Protect from cool nights—indoors is best until warm weather settles.
• Regular Picking = Bushier Plants: The more you harvest, the better it grows.
• Beautiful Garnish: Use fresh purple leaves to add instant colour to salads and cocktails.
Got questions about your leafy friends? We've got answers! From watering tips to choosing the perfect plant for your space, our FAQ has everything you need to keep your greens thriving