Basil, Cardinal

Cardinal Basil is truly a STUNNING plant!!  She is a late bloomer though, so keep that in mind.  When you purchase this beautiful basil start, she'll "just" look green.  But give her time (generally, the transformation starts in August) and she will transform into a captivating dark beauty!! 

Flavor-wise, Cardinal Basil is bolder than the average Genovese type, however, we've used it in caprese, basil butter, infused vinegars, etc. and they all tasted delicious.  If you prefer a milder basil from a flavor perspective, we recommend our Purple Basil (the mildest) or Italian Mountain Sweet Basil. 
However, even if you like a more mild palate, we still recommend planting Cardinal Basil simply for her beauty!! 

Favorite plant color combos:

Cardinal Basil + California Sungold (Cherry) Tomato
Cardinal Basil + Marta Polka Bell Pepper
Cardinal Basil + Baltic Red Kale

Cardinal Basil grows to about 24" tall, more upright with narrower shoulders than your typical basil.  The plant has deep burgundy-colored stems and thick, oval, bright-green leaves. When mature, it produces tightly-packed, pagoda-shaped flower clusters at the crown of its stems that range in color from magenta to dark red.  

Basil thrives in full sun and fertile, well draining soil.  Mulching at the base of the plant helps to retain soil moisture throughout the season.  

• Days to Maturity: 70 - 85
• Companion Plants: Asters, Basil, Chives, Parsley, Peppers, Tomatoes
  
• Heirloom, Open-Pollinated 
• Plant Spacing: 12 - 24"  

Photo Credit: Jess Page