Persian

Basil

35d to harvest

Fragrant as a warm breeze over sunlit gardens, Persian lettuce-leaf basil unfurls tender, spoon-soft leaves with a vibrant, fresh-green glow. The flavor is bright and aromatic—sweetly herbal with a gentle, classic basil lift—while the texture stays pleasantly delicate and never turns tough. Grow Persian for abundant, quick harvests that shine in fresh garnishes, fragrant sauces, and aromatic finishing oils, or for pickling where its lively perfume can linger.

Crop Dates

Growing note: In frost-free Zone 11b, 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 5th
Harvest Ends	Feb 28th

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	35
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 on Ocimum basilicum (Persian basil) and how do I control it?

Look for downy mildew and leaf fungal spots, which often show up as grayish patches or dark lesions on basil leaves when nights are cool and foliage stays wet. Water at the soil line, space plants to keep leaves dry, and remove badly infected leaves early; for persistent issues use an appropriate labeled fungicide and avoid overhead watering. Aphids can also cluster on tender shoots—spray them off with a strong jet of water and repeat every 2–3 days until they’re gone.

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

During active growth (after seedlings establish), keep the top 1–2 inches of soil consistently lightly moist—typically about 1–2 times per week depending on heat and container size. Water deeply so it reaches the root zone, but don’t keep soil soggy; basil in wet soil quickly develops leaf diseases. In full sun, check more often in hot weather and water sooner if the soil surface dries out.

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

Harvest when plants are about 30–40 days from sowing and have a dense set of healthy leaves (around 6–8 inches tall for many home setups). Pick the top sets of leaves just above a pair of leaf nodes to encourage branching; the first harvest should be light if plants are still small. Continue harvesting regularly before plants bolt—once flower buds form, leaves become tougher and more bitter.