Holy Basil Purple Leaf (Ocimum tenuiflorum) is a herbaceous plant that is commonly known as Tulsi or Sacred Basil. It is a member of the mint family and is native to India, where it has been used for thousands of years in Ayurvedic medicine for its numerous health benefits.
The Purple Leaf Holy Basil is a beautiful variety of this plant that has stunning purple foliage and pink to purple flowers. It is easy to grow and can be used in a variety of culinary dishes or for medicinal purposes.
How to harvest and store your basil
The essential oils of the plant are at their peak early in the morning making this the perfect time for harvest mature leaves. While harvesting pinch back the growing tip of the plants which will stimulate branching and make a fuller more bushy plant. Basil leaves can be used fresh or dried. Another method of storage is to grind them up in a food processor and place in ice cube trays with a little water and freeze. Once frozen they can be removed to freezer bags and used for that “fresh” basil taste anytime of the year. Leaves can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.