Basil 'Dark Opal'

Dark Opal Basil (Ocimum basilicum ‘Dark Opal’)

Dark Opal Basil is prized for its deep purple foliage and classic basil flavor, making it the most traditional-tasting of the purple-leaf varieties. Milder than Aromatto yet more savory and robust than Cinnamon, it’s ideal for fresh use in salads, pestos, and as a striking garnish.

Fast-growing with slightly ruffled leaves, the plant is predominantly purple, though about 10% of foliage may appear variegated or green, creating a naturally beautiful color mix. Red-tinged leaves and purple blooms add edible elegance to both culinary dishes and floral arrangements.

Pinch regularly to maintain compact, bushy growth. Perfect as a filler, accent, or edible flower in bouquets and gardens.

DETAILS:

QTY: 100

TYPE: Annual

SITE: Full Sun

DEPTH: 1/4 - 1/8” 

GERMINATION: 5-10 days at 18-21°C

HEIGHT: 16 - 18"

MATURITY: 65 - 70 Days

SPACING: 4 - 8”

PINCH: Yes 

HOW TO GROW:
Direct Seed (recommended): Sow seeds directly outdoors in spring after the last frost, once the soil has warmed. Sow 2–3 seeds per inch in rows 18" apart. Firm the soil over the seeds. No thinning is required, but spacing plants to 4–8" apart will encourage healthy, full plants.

Transplant (alternative): Start seeds indoors 6 weeks before you plan to plant them outdoors. Sow seeds ¼" deep and maintain a temperature of 21∘C for optimal germination. Transplant when seedlings have 3–4 sets of leaves.

Pinching: Pinch basil plants early and often to encourage a bushy habit and prevent flowering. Pinching the central stem above a set of leaves will encourage new growth from the sides.

Soil Preference and Watering: Basil prefers full sun and rich, well-drained soil. Keep the soil consistently moist, but avoid overwatering.

Fertilizing: Amending the soil with compost before planting is sufficient. If growth seems slow, a light application of a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer can be used.

Harvesting: For culinary use, harvest leaves as needed. For cut flower and filler use, harvest basil stems when the foliage is firm and the plant has developed flower spikes. Cut in the early morning or late evening and immediately place in a vase of water.