Grow big flavor with a classic Italian favorite!
This basil means business, with oversized, aromatic leaves and a sweet, rich flavor, it’s a must-have for pesto lovers, summer chefs, and anyone who dreams of a garden that smells like an Italian kitchen.
Variety: Italian Large Leaf Basil (Ocimum basilicum)
Growth Habit: Annual herb
Height: 18–24 inches
Flavor Profile: Sweet, rich, and slightly spicy
Color: Bright green, extra-large leaves
Planting Conditions: Full sun and fertile, well-drained soil
Harvest Timeline: Ready in 60–75 days
Uses: Pesto, caprese salads, sauces, herbal teas, edible garnishes
Fun Fact: This variety often produces even larger leaves than Genovese basil, perfect for wrapping, stuffing, or blending into bold, flavorful sauces.
Italian Large Leaf Basil is the kind of herb that makes you want to cook barefoot in the garden. Its massive, fragrant leaves are perfect for layering in sandwiches, wrapping around mozzarella, or blitzing into a vibrant pesto. It’s a favorite for gardeners who love generous harvests and cooks who crave that unmistakable basil aroma. Whether you’re growing it in a raised bed or a sunny pot on the porch, this basil brings the bounty.
To Full Size
🌞 Choose a Sunny Spot: Basil thrives in full sun with at least 6 hours of light daily.
🌱 Sow the Seeds: Start indoors 6 weeks before the last frost or direct sow after frost danger has passed. Plant seeds ¼ inch deep.
💧 Water Gently: Keep soil moist but not soggy. Water at the base to avoid mildew.
🌾 Thin and Maintain: Thin seedlings to 6–12 inches apart. Pinch off flower buds to encourage more leaf growth.
✂️ Harvest: Begin harvesting when plants are 6–8 inches tall. Regular picking promotes bushier growth.
For Microgreens
🌱 Prepare Your Tray: Use a shallow tray with drainage. Fill with seed-starting mix or coco coir.
🌾 Sow the Seeds: Scatter seeds evenly (8–10 grams per 10"x20" tray). Lightly press into the surface.
💧 Mist and Cover: Mist gently and cover with a humidity dome or tray lid.
🌱 Germination (Days 1–4): Keep in a warm, dark place. Mist daily.
🌞 Light and Watering (Days 5–10): Remove cover and place under grow lights or in a sunny window. Begin bottom watering.
✂️ Harvest (Days 10–14): Cut when microgreens are 2–3 inches tall. Use fresh or store in the fridge for up to a week.
