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PlantSnap
Plant Care
American basil
(Ocimum americanum)
Also Known As
American basil, African blue basil, Basil, Rambling basil, Holy basil
About This Plant
Ocimum americanum is a species of basil that is native to tropical regions of the Americas. It is an annual herb that grows up to 1 meter tall and has green or purple leaves that are highly aromatic.
Plant Care Instructions
Outdoor Size Range
24-36 inches (60-90 cm)
Light Requirements
Lemon basil requires full sun to grow well. It needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Humidity Needs
Lemon basil prefers moderate to high humidity levels. If the air is dry, mist the plant regularly with water to increase humidity levels.
Fertilizing Schedule
Fertilize the plant every 2-3 weeks with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.
Pruning Guidelines
Pinch off the tips of the plant regularly to encourage bushier growth. Remove any yellow or damaged leaves.
Common Pests and Diseases
Common pests that affect Lemon basil include aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. Diseases that affect this plant species include fusarium wilt and downy mildew.
Indoor Size Range
12-24 inches (30-60 cm)
Watering Schedule
Water the plant regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Temperature Range
This plant species prefers warm temperatures between 70-85°F (21-29°C). It cannot tolerate frost or temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
Growing Season
Lemon basil can be grown year-round in warm climates. In cooler climates, it is best grown during the summer months.
Growing Difficulty Level
Lemon basil is relatively easy to grow, making it a great choice for beginners.
USDA Hardiness Zones
Lemon basil is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Did You Know?
Lemon basil is often used in Thai, Indonesian, and Laotian cuisine to add a lemony flavor to dishes.
