Clove Basil

Basil

Zone 5a Save Garden

🌱 60d to harvest Shrub

Aromatic and unmistakably bold, Clove Basil releases a warm clove-like fragrance the moment you brush its leaves—sweet, spicy, an…

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Mar 27th
Last Frost	May 8th
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	Jun 26th
Harvest Begins	Aug 25th
Harvest Ends	Sep 30th

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	60
Sun Requirements	Full Sun
Growth Habit	Shrub
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

Goliath Bush Early Tomato

Cherokee Carbon Tomato

Tuscan Pepper

Bhut Jolokia Chocolate Pepper

Peppadew Pepper

Golden Calwonder Pepper

Frequently Asked Questions

What pest or disease commonly affects Ocimum gratissimum (clove basil), and how do I control it?

Clove basil is often hit by aphids and whiteflies, especially in warm, still conditions; you’ll see clusters on new growth and sticky honeydew. Spray affected plants with a strong jet of water, then apply insecticidal soap (especially on leaf undersides) and repeat every 5–7 days until activity stops. If you notice black spots or leaf yellowing with damp, crowded foliage, thin plants for airflow and avoid wetting leaves when watering.

How often should I water Ocimum gratissimum during active growth, and what soil moisture should I maintain?

During the main growing phase, keep soil consistently evenly moist but not soggy—aim for the top 1 inch to dry slightly between waterings. In full sun summer conditions, this often means watering about 1–2 times per week, but adjust to rainfall and container vs. ground conditions. Water at the base early in the day to prevent leaf wetness that can worsen spotting and stress.

How can I tell when clove basil (Ocimum gratissimum) is ready to harvest?

Harvest when plants reach roughly 8–12 inches tall and have developed multiple healthy sets of leaves, typically around 60 days from sowing. For the best clove-like aroma, pick before plants flower—when flower buds first appear, leaf flavor and softness usually decline. Use scissors to cut the top 1/3 of stems or snip individual leaves above a leaf pair to encourage branching and repeat harvests.

Aromatic and unmistakably bold, Clove Basil releases a warm clove-like fragrance the moment you brush its leaves—sweet, spicy, and deeply fragrant. The foliage is tender and lush with a smooth, slightly glossy texture, forming an upright, well-branched plant that’s as beautiful as it is flavorful. Grow Clove Basil for standout fresh use and for fragrant finishing in sauces, infused oils, and vinegar—its distinctive aroma shines whether you’re garnishing or steeping.

Sowing Tips

Transplant Conditions

Wait until soil reaches 60°F and nights stay above 50°F before moving outdoors. Harden off for 10 days first.

Expert Note

Start clove basil indoors for a head start, then transplant only when nights are reliably warm (and keep soil consistently moist until it establishes).