Basil, Opalescent

Strikingly beautiful, ruffled dark purple basil. Opalescent basil is both an ornamental and a culinary herb. Refreshing flavor profile is reminiscent of the anise-clove combo of Thai basil, while preserving some sweet Genovese-adjacent and fruity aromatics. Makes a great fresh herb topping for dishes such as Vietnamese phở, or use as an elegant edible garnish. Adds a distinct flavor and beautiful pink/purple tint to marinades, salad dressings, or a simple syrup that could be amazing in the hands of the right mixologist. The glossy leaves are occasionally mottled with green and have ruffled edges that add a nice visual appeal not only in the garden but also as a summer foliage plant for bouquets. Plants grow quite large, up to 30” tall with long stems and benefit from staking if allowed to reach full size. Pollinators go crazy for it when it’s flowering and the small lavender-pink flowers contrast nicely against the dark foliage. 
 
Photo and description courtesy of Adaptive Seeds