Growing Guide: Sweet Basil

Botanical Name Ocimum campechianum
Common Names Wild Sweet Basil, Wild Mosquitoplant
Family Lamiaceae (Mint Family)
Origin South Florida, Caribbean, Mexico, Central & South America
Plant Type Herbaceous Annual
Life Cycle Annual
Mature Size 3–4 ft tall, 2–3 ft wide
Light Full Sun to Partial Shade
Water Needs Moderate
Soil Well-drained
Harvest Season Late Spring to Summer
Time to Harvest 60–75 days from planting
Self-Fertile Yes
Growth Rate Fast
USDA Zones 9–11
Florida Native Yes (Endangered in Florida)
Propagation Seeds, Cuttings
Seasonal Traits Blooms with purple flowers in warm seasons