African Blue Basil (Ocimum kilimandscharicum × basilicum) is a hardy, Florida‑friendly, fragrant perennial herb prized for its nonstop blooms and exceptional pollinator appeal. This basil stays lush and productive without needing to be pinched back, since it never sets seed. Its soft lavender‑purple flowers attract an abundance of bees and butterflies, making it a standout pollinator plant for any garden. African Blue Basil grows 3–4 feet tall, thrives in full sun to part shade, and performs well in sand, clay or loam, with regular moisture and frost protection. Though edible, it carries a light camphor note that some may find strong, but its ornamental beauty, heat tolerance, and constant pollinator activity make it an exceptional choice for herb gardens, borders, and wildlife‑friendly landscapes. Easy to grow and adaptable to clay, sand, or loam soils, this aromatic shrub‑like basil offers long‑season color, fragrance, and ecological value.
- Perennial herb
- Size: 1-3 ft. tall
- Flower: Lavender-purple
- Exposure: Full sun, part shade
- Moisture: Moist
- Soil: Sand, clay, loam
- pH: Slightly acid to slightly alkaline
- Edible but has a camphor flavor
- Attracts pollinators, especially bees
/mp