Basil is a popular and easy-to-grow herb that can add flavor to many dishes. If you’re wondering, “How big do basil plants get?” the answer depends on the variety and growing conditions. Let’s explore the typical sizes of basil plants and the factors that influence their growth.
Basil Size: What to Expect
Mature basil plants typically reach a height of 12 to 24 inches. They can also spread out to a width of 12 to 24 inches, making them a lovely addition to any garden or pot. However, the size of your basil plant can vary significantly based on the variety and environmental conditions.
Variety Matters
Different types of basil have unique mature dimensions. Here’s a quick look at some common varieties and their sizes:
- Sweet Basil: Large-leaved basils like sweet basil and Italian basil can grow two to three feet tall.
- Small-Leaved Basil: Varieties like lemon basil, dwarf basil, or spicy globe basil usually grow 8 to 12 inches in height and width. Spicy Globe basil reaches a mature height of 6 to 12 inches and a width of about 12 inches.
- Italian Large Leaf Basil: This type typically grows to around 24 inches tall and 15 inches wide, but can get as large as 36 inches tall and 24 inches wide. Large Leaf Italian Basil grows 18-24 inches tall and wide.
- Giant Basil: The ‘Italian Large Leaf’ can grow to a height of 24 to 36 inches and spread out to 24 inches or more.
Environmental Factors
Besides the variety, several environmental factors can influence the size of your basil plant.
- Sunlight: Basil thrives when it gets at least 6 hours of sunlight daily.
- Soil Quality: Nutrient-rich soil is essential for optimal growth.
- Watering: Consistent watering practices can lead to noticeable variations in growth.
- Container Size: Smaller containers can restrict root development, resulting in smaller plants, while larger containers allow for more extensive root systems, promoting larger plants. For optimal growth, choose pots that are at least 12 inches in diameter.
How to Grow Bushy Basil
To encourage your basil to grow bushy with more leaves, pinch off the flowers. Pinching and regular use of your basil plant will encourage it to become bushy.
Potting and Spacing
Basil needs at least 4 inches of space and soil depth to flourish. Most sites recommend 6-8 inches between basil plants, but a minimum of 4 inches can work. Some gardeners prefer using a 10-inch pot or larger for their basil plants.
From Seed to Size: How Long Does It Take?
Basil can reach full size in 60-90 days under ideal conditions.
Here are the expected growth milestones:
- Seed Germination: 5-10 days
- Seedling Stage: 2-3 weeks
- Transition to Maturity: 60-90 days
Basil: Not Just a Culinary Herb
Basil is a member of the mint family with aromatic leaves that offer a variety of flavors, from slightly lemony mint to cinnamon and licorice. Leaf colors range from rich green to deep purple, with smooth or crinkled textures. Basil is not only a culinary staple but also an attractive addition to herb gardens, vegetable plots, flower borders, and pot displays.
Basil Varieties to Consider
There are many excellent varieties of basil, offering a range of flavors from sweet and aromatic to rich and spicy. Most basil plants form fairly compact plants, typically 12-20 inches tall, with attractive foliage.
Here are a few recommended varieties:
Ocimum basilicum* ‘Genovese’: A popular basil with large, bright green leaves.
Ocimum basilicum* ‘Mrs Burns’ Lemon’: An improved form of lemon basil that is more robust.
Ocimum basilicum var. purpurascens* ‘Purple Ruffles’: A top-performing purple basil.
Conclusion
The size of basil plants varies depending on the variety and growing conditions. With the right care, you can enjoy a thriving basil plant that enhances your garden and your culinary creations.