HERB ‘Dark Opal Basil’ Seeds
Botanical Name: Ocimum basilicum var. purpurascens
- Striking purple foliage with occasional green highlights.
- Sweet and slightly spicy flavour—perfect for salads and garnishes.
- Attracts pollinators and enhances garden aesthetics.
- Grows well in containers or garden beds in sunny NZ locations.
Plant Details
- Plant Type: Warm-season annual
- Plant Height: 30–45 cm
Sowing Information
- Germination: 7–14 days
- Depth: Sow 2–3 mm deep, lightly pressed into soil
- Position: Full sun
- Sow Where: Direct in garden beds or in containers
- Soil Type: Fertile, moist, well-drained soil (pH 6.0–7.5)
- Spacing: 20–30 cm between plants
Growing Tips
- Keep soil evenly moist—avoid letting it dry out.
- Mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
- Pinch out flower buds early to extend leaf production.
- Harvest leaves regularly for continued growth.
- Ideal for pots in cooler areas—bring indoors if needed.
- Apply light fertiliser every 3–4 weeks for optimal results.
Harvest
Harvest leaves approximately 60–70 days after sowing. Pick regularly to maintain bushiness.
When to Sow Dark Opal Basil in New Zealand
| NZ Region | Best Planting Time | Growing Advice for NZ Gardeners |
|---|---|---|
| North Island – Upper (e.g. Auckland, Northland, Bay of Plenty) | September to February | Direct sow outdoors in spring and summer. Grows well in full sun with regular watering. |
| North Island – Lower (e.g. Wellington, Hawke’s Bay, Taranaki) | October to January | Start indoors in early spring or sow outdoors once soil warms. Protect from cold nights. |
| South Island – Upper (e.g. Nelson, Marlborough, West Coast) | October to January | Sow in warm, sunny areas or grow in pots for flexibility. Mulch well to retain soil warmth. |
| South Island – Lower (e.g. Canterbury, Otago, Southland) | November to December | Best grown in containers. Start indoors in spring and transplant after frost risk passes. |
