HERB ‘Thai Holy Basil Red’ Seeds
Botanical Name: Ocimum tenuiflorum
- Sacred herb in many cultures, traditionally known as Tulsi.
- Strong clove-like aroma used in Thai stir-fries, curries, and teas.
- Compact bushy plant with red stems and pink flowers, highly ornamental.
- Attracts bees and beneficial insects; ideal for warm climates.
- Suitable for containers, garden beds, and permaculture systems.
Product Description
Thai Holy Basil ‘Red’ is a treasured culinary and spiritual herb commonly known as Tulsi. Valued for its deep, clove-like aroma and medicinal qualities, this fast-growing basil is essential in Thai cooking, teas, and wellness tonics. Its striking red stems and soft pink flowers also make it a visually appealing addition to any garden.
Easy to grow in warm, sunny environments, this heat-loving basil thrives in both garden beds and containers. It’s especially suited to tropical and subtropical regions but can also be grown as a summer annual in cooler zones. Ideal for gardeners seeking a productive herb that supports biodiversity and offers therapeutic uses.
Plant Details
- Plant Type: Annual herb, thrives in full sun and warm conditions
- Plant Height: 30 – 60 cm
Sowing Information
- Germination: 7 – 14 days @ 18 – 25°C
- Depth: 0.5 cm deep
- Position: Full sun
- Sow Where: Directly into garden beds or containers
- Soil Type: Fertile, well-drained soil with pH 6.0 – 7.5
- Spacing: 30 cm between plants
Growing Tips
- Water consistently to keep soil moist but avoid overwatering.
- Pinch out tips to encourage bushy growth and delay flowering.
- Grows best in heat and struggles in cold or shaded areas.
- Use as a fresh herb in tea, salads, or traditional Thai recipes.
Harvest
60 – 70 days after sowing. Harvest regularly to promote new leaf growth.
When to Sow Thai Holy Basil Red in New Zealand
| NZ Region | Best Planting Time | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| North Island – Upper (e.g. Auckland, Northland) | September – February | Sow outdoors once frost risk passes. Prefers humid warmth. |
| North Island – Lower (e.g. Wellington, Hawke’s Bay) | October – January | Start in trays indoors or sow direct in warm weather. |
| South Island – Northern (e.g. Nelson, Marlborough) | October – December | Needs warm sheltered sites. Use cloches if sowing early. |
| South Island – Central & Southern (e.g. Canterbury, Otago) | November – December | Grow in pots in a sunny, protected spot. Avoid frost at all stages. |
How to Grow Thai Holy Basil Red as Microgreens
- Do not pre-soak seeds.
- Use approx. 28 g per 10 x 20″ tray.
- Fill tray with moist potting mix or coco coir.
- Sprinkle seeds evenly and lightly mist to settle.
- Cover with blackout dome for 4–6 days until germination.
- Place under indirect light and water daily.
- Ready to harvest in 18–25 days when 5–7 cm tall.
- Snip above soil line and use fresh in teas or garnish.
