Basil Red Ball

About Red Ball: The herbal type Basil varieties are known for their good yields, disease resistance, excellent ornamental value and delicious flavour. Red Ball is a very compact, bushy plant with small dark red leaves tipped with very attractive bright green edges. The bush becomes covered in pink flowers during summer.

Grows to a height of around 30cm spreading to around 30cm. As with all Basil's they prefer a nice sunny spot and to be kept away from drafts. If you have a sunny windowsill, Basil can grow very successfully there. In the warmer months your plants can be left outside. Drainage is a key to Basil being successful and a well drained soil will help the plant thrive. They're not too fussy with the type of soil and a good quality multi purpose is ideal.

Ocimum herbalea 'Red Ball'
About the Basil 'Family': Basil, from the Lamiaccae family, is native to tropical regions from Africa to Southeast Asia and is used worldwide as a culinary herb. It's mostly used for its fresh leaves which generally have a slightly anise flavour with a strong, sweet smell and are added to dishes at the last moment as high temperatures will diminish the flavour. The leaves can also be dried although the a lot of the flavour is lost. The flower buds can also be eaten and have a more subtle flavour. Basil is classed as a tender herb and our varieties won't withstand a frost.