Basils are one of the most popular herbs preferred by many people. They can be added to many dishes and drinks to increase taste better. Apart from using daily meals, they can be used in medicine. That is the reason why in the post today we want to write about this herb as well as the effects of each. Best of all, they are edible and perfect for growing in containers.

In the list, you will see that some are very familiar, but others are quite strange. Don’t wonder about it because there are a lot of different types of basil that not everyone knows. With each, they will bring their own uses in cooking and medicine. For example, Christmas Basil works well into pesto, sauces, salads, herbal dishes as well as in drinks and teas; Greek Basil can be used in garnishes, salads, meat dishes, or soups, and tomato dishes; or Holy Basil is used in tea or chai that will boost your immune system; and more. Read them now!

#1 Sweet Basil

It is among the most popular basil varieties to grow in cooking with its tender, aromatic foliage. Ranging from green to purple the herb can attain a height of 12-18 inches. To grow it, use fertile soil that is rich in organic matter. Grow it in a sunny spot and keep it well watered. It does not tolerate harsh cold weather.

#2 Genovese Basil

The characteristic feature of Genovese basil is the flatter and pointier leaves. This variety is a bit cold tolerant and prefers 6-8 hours of direct sun. Well-draining soil with neutral soil pH is best for it.

#3 Thai Basil

Thai basil has a touch of licorice with a strong flavor. The purplish stems and purple-veined leaves make it a showy plant. This plant is very susceptible to frost damage. This is also a sun-loving plant and requires moderate watering.

#4 Napoletano Basil

Originating from the regions of Naples (Itay), its extraordinarily large leaves are used for wrapping poultry, fish, or cheese. It can grow up to two feet tall. This basil needs the full sun to flourish. A light potting medium is suitable for planting.

#5 Dark Opal Basil

This exotic looking dark purple foliage basil can enhance the beauty of your landscape. Place the pot nearby a sunny windowsill so that it can enjoy the direct sun. Keep the soil evenly moist in the initial stage when the plant is establishing.

#6 Christmas Basil

It’s a mix of Thai and Genovese basil. The fruity aromatic flavor of this basil is somewhat like wine with a tinge of pine. It works well into pesto, sauces, salads, herbal dishes as well as in drinks and teas. Ample watering with mulching around the base is what it needs. Japanese beetles can skeletonize the whole plant, be on a lookout for them.

#7 Lemon Basil

Foliage is tender light green and the plant grows 20-24 inches in height. It’s not as ornamental as other basil varieties but forms beautiful white spikes that are tall and appealing. Add lemon basil to the ice tea for warm lemon flavor and to it make it an invigorating drink. Add a phosphorus-rich fertilizer in the first week of planting. Water daily, prune it from time to time to improve air circulation.

#8 Lettuce Leaf Basil

The large wrinkled leaves of this basil resemble lettuce and are used broadly in salads and fresh dishes due to the mild and less aromatic flavor. Ideal for a lettuce wrap because the leaves are large, around 3-5 inches in size. Beware of frost if you plant this basil outdoors. Avoid using a fertilizer with high nitrogen content.

#9 Lime Basil

Just like the lemon basil, it is also one of the types of basil that is citrus flavored. Although, it is not as common as lemon basil. You can grow a combination of both lemon and lime basils as they make a great pair. Choose a spot that receives around six of direct sun. Don’t overwater the plant. Install support such as stake if the plant gets too heavy.

#10 Cinnamon Basil

Mexican spicy basil is another name of this basil. Growing around 25 inches tall, shiny leaves and small pinkish-lavender and mauve color flowers make it an excellent choice for flower arrangements. It has a spicy flavor and fragrant aroma, it goes well in fruit salads and garnishes. Rich, moist, and slightly acidic soil is optimum for planting. Water routinely and avoid the soil from drying out completely.