Mammoth

Basil

55d to harvest

Aromas of sweet clove and fresh green tea rise the moment you brush the leaves—Mammoth Basil is a true showpiece with large, velvety foliage that feels substantial in the hand. Expect tender, broad leaves with a smooth, slightly crinkled surface and a lush, upright growth habit that makes harvests abundant and satisfying for fresh use and bold flavoring in sauces, pesto-style blends, and fragrant garnishes.

Crop Dates

Growing note: In frost-free Zone 11a, grow this cool-season crop during the cooler dry season (October–February).

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	—
Climate	Frost-Free Climate
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	Oct 1st
Harvest Begins	Nov 25th
Harvest Ends	Feb 28th

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	55
Sun Requirements	Full Sun
Growth Habit	Upright
Support Needed	None
Planting Depth	Normal
Germination Temp (°F)	70
Min Soil Temp (°F)	60
Min Night Temp (°F)	50
Harden Off (days)	10

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the most common pest or disease issue for Ocimum basilicum (Mammoth basil), and how do I fix it?

Downy mildew is a frequent problem for basil in humid weather, showing as yellow patches on top leaves with gray/purple growth underneath. Remove infected leaves immediately, improve airflow between plants, and water at the soil line early in the day so foliage stays dry. If it keeps recurring, switch to a weekly preventive spray of a labeled biofungicide (based on your local product guidance) rather than watering more heavily.

How often should I water Mammoth basil during the main growing phase?

During active leaf growth, keep soil consistently moist but not soggy—water when the top 1 inch of soil feels dry. Typically this means about 1–2 times per week outdoors, but in hot spells you may need more frequent watering to prevent leaf droop. Avoid splashing leaves, because wet foliage promotes basil diseases.

How can I tell when Mammoth basil (Ocimum basilicum) is ready to harvest?

Start harvesting when plants are about 6–8 inches tall and have multiple mature leaf sets, roughly around 55 days for best production. Harvest by pinching or cutting above a pair of leaves to encourage branching, and take the top growth first. If the plant starts forming flower buds, harvest sooner and more often, because flowering quickly reduces leaf tenderness and flavor.