BASIL ‘Siam Queen’ Herb Seeds
Botanical Name: Ocimum basilicum var. thyrsiflora
- Authentic Thai basil with sweet anise-clove flavour and rich aroma.
- Glossy green leaves and striking purple stems make it a standout herb.
- Great for Thai curries, stir-fries, noodle dishes, and fresh garnishes.
- Highly productive and perfect for warm-season herb gardens or pots.
Product Description
‘Siam Queen’ is a traditional Thai basil prized for its sweet, aromatic flavour that combines hints of anise and clove. The plants are both beautiful and practical, featuring glossy green leaves and purple stems that bring ornamental flair to herb gardens or pots.0
It thrives in warm conditions with full sun and good drainage. Regular harvesting encourages branching and abundant growth. Perfect for home cooks, this variety is easy to grow from seed and provides a continuous supply of flavour-packed leaves through the warmer months.
Plant Details:
- Plant Type: Warm season annual herb (frost sensitive)
- Plant Height: Up to 60 cm
Sowing Information:
- Germination: 7–14 days
- Depth: Surface sow – press gently into moist soil
- Position: Full sun (light afternoon shade in hot climates)
- Sow Where: Direct in garden or start in trays and transplant
- Soil Type: Free-draining, fertile soil; pH 6.0–7.5
- Spacing: 30–45 cm between plants
Growing Tips:
- Water regularly to maintain even moisture in the soil.
- Pinch off flower buds early to encourage bushy growth.
- Mulch around plants to retain moisture and reduce weeds.
- Feed every 3–4 weeks with diluted liquid fertiliser.
- Grow in pots in cooler areas to extend harvest into autumn.
Harvest:
Start harvesting from 80 days after sowing. Pick young stems regularly to promote more growth and fuller plants.
How to Grow ‘Siam Queen’ as Microgreens
- No need to pre-soak the seeds.
- Use approx. 28 g per standard 10 x 20″ tray.
- Scatter seeds over moist potting mix or coco coir (3–4 cm deep).
- Mist gently and cover for 4–6 days to aid germination.
- After sprouting, place in bright light or near a sunny window.
- Keep growing medium consistently moist.
- Harvest in 18–30 days using scissors, 1–2 cm above the soil line.
When to Sow Siam Queen Basil in New Zealand
| NZ Region | Best Planting Time | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| North Island – Upper (e.g. Auckland, Bay of Plenty) | September – February | Sow direct or in trays once night temps are above 15°C. |
| North Island – Lower (e.g. Wellington, Hawke’s Bay) | October – January | Start indoors and transplant after frost risk passes. |
| South Island – Northern (e.g. Nelson, Marlborough) | October – December | Raise seedlings in trays for transplanting into warm soil. |
| South Island – Central & Southern (e.g. Canterbury, Otago) | November – December | Use pots or cloches to protect young plants in cooler zones. |
Click here to download your FREE Seed Raising Guide.
