Caribbean Tree Basil
70d to harvest
Caribbean Tree Basil fills the garden with a lush, upright presence and a richly aromatic fragrance that blooms in the air—bold, sweet, and distinctly herbal with a bright, sun-warmed lift. At maturity, it forms sturdy, woody-leaning stems topped with large, velvety leaves that hold their shape beautifully and exude a deep green, tea-like perfume. Grow Caribbean Tree Basil for standout fresh use and for fragrant sauces, pesto-style blends, and herb-forward infusions that showcase its full-bodied character.
Crop Dates
Growing note: In frost-free Zone 13b, 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 | Dec 10th |
| Harvest Ends | Feb 28th |
Crop Details
| Trait | Value |
|---|---|
| Days to Maturity | 70 |
| 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 |
Recommended Companions
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I water Ocimum gratissimum during its main growing phase?
During active growth (roughly once it’s established and until late summer), keep the top 1–2 inches of soil evenly moist but not soggy. In full sun, this usually means watering about 2–3 times per week depending on heat, but always check soil moisture first and reduce watering if the soil stays wet. Avoid long dry spells, because drought-stressed tree basil tends to drop leaves and becomes more susceptible to mildew.
How do I know when Ocimum gratissimum is ready to harvest?
Begin harvesting when plants are well branched and reach the listed maturity window (about 70 days from sowing) with vigorous new shoots. Pick sprigs regularly once the plant has multiple sets of leaves, harvesting no more than about one-third of the growth at a time to keep it productive. For best flavor, harvest in the morning before the sun is strongest, and cut just above a leaf node to encourage fresh side shoots.