SproutSmart
SproutSmart™ Intelligent Garden Sowing

Red Holy Basil

Basil
Zone 12a Save Garden

Planting Schedule

Add Red Holy Basil to your garden to build a schedule and get reminders.
Botanical illustration of Red Holy Basil
60d to harvest

Fragrant as a warm breeze—Red Holy Basil carries a rich, clove-tinged basil aroma with a distinctly deep, wine-red undertone that lingers in the air. Leaves are tender and softly textured, with a vivid burgundy sheen that deepens as plants mature, offering a lush, upright habit that’s as beautiful as it is aromatic. Ideal for fresh aromatic use and for infusing oils, vinegars, and flavorful sauces, this variety brings its signature red personality to every pot and patio garden.

Sowing Tips

Soil Temperature

Direct sow or transplant when soil at planting depth holds 60°F for reliable germination and early growth.

Expert Note

Warm up the soil (and protect from cool nights) because holy basil is slow to settle after transplanting in cold conditions.

Crop Dates

Growing note: In frost-free Zone 12a, grow this cool-season crop during the cooler dry season (October–February).
MilestoneDate
Start Indoors—
ClimateFrost-Free Climate
Transplant / Sow OutdoorsOct 1st
Harvest BeginsNov 30th
Harvest EndsFeb 28th

Crop Details

TraitValue
Days to Maturity60
Sun RequirementsFull SunFull sun
Growth HabitUpright
Support NeededNone
Planting DepthNormal
Germination Temp (°F)70
Min Soil Temp (°F)60
Min Night Temp (°F)50
Harden Off (days)10

Today's Conditions

Outdoor planting for Red Holy Basil in Zone 12a typically begins around 2026-10-01. Wait until soil reaches at least 60°F before transplanting Red Holy Basil.

Garden Alerts

In frost-free Zone 12a, grow this cool-season crop during the cooler dry season (October–February).

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Frequently Asked Questions

What pest or disease commonly affects Ocimum tenuiflorum (red holy basil), and how can I treat it?
Holy basil (Ocimum tenuiflorum) is prone to leaf fungal spots when foliage stays wet and airflow is poor. At the first sign of spotting, remove affected leaves, water at the soil line, and thin plants so leaves dry quickly; improve airflow around the crown. If spotting spreads, use a labeled copper-based fungicide and reapply according to the label after 5–7 days.
How often should I water red holy basil during the main growing phase?
During active growth, keep the top 1–2 inches of soil lightly moist but never waterlogged—typically this means watering about once every 2–4 days depending on heat and container size. Aim for deep watering that penetrates the root zone, then let the soil surface dry slightly before the next watering. Consistent moisture supports leaf production, while soggy soil can trigger root stress and leaf diseases.
How do I tell when Ocimum tenuiflorum is ready to harvest?
Harvest starting around 45–60 days when plants are well branched and have strong leaf growth, continuing as long as new shoots are forming. Pick the top 6–8 inches of growth (or pinch off stem tips) before flowers open for the best leaf flavor and aroma. If you see buds forming and the plant starts redirecting energy to flowering, begin harvesting more selectively to avoid reducing regrowth.

Sowing Tips

Soil Temperature

Direct sow or transplant when soil at planting depth holds 60°F for reliable germination and early growth.

Expert Note

Warm up the soil (and protect from cool nights) because holy basil is slow to settle after transplanting in cold conditions.

Botanical illustration of Red Holy Basil

Fragrant as a warm breeze—Red Holy Basil carries a rich, clove-tinged basil aroma with a distinctly deep, wine-red undertone that lingers in the air. Leaves are tender and softly textured, with a vivid burgundy sheen that deepens as plants mature, offering a lush, upright habit that’s as beautiful as it is aromatic. Ideal for fresh aromatic use and for infusing oils, vinegars, and flavorful sauces, this variety brings its signature red personality to every pot and patio garden.