Sweet Basil Be Going

The image was taken on November 7th, 2016. It was 7°C and windy.

Sweet basil, Ocimum basilicum, is a fragrant annual herb in the mint family, native to tropical Asia. Its glossy, tender leaves carry a peppery, slightly clove-like sweetness that defines Italian pesto, caprese salad, and countless Mediterranean dishes. Basil thrives in warm sunshine, rich well-drained soil, and regular watering, and it dies at the first frost. Pinching off flower buds encourages bushier growth and keeps the leaves flavorful. Add it near the end of cooking, since heat quickly dulls its aroma.