Ocimum basilicum, basil, Lamiaceae, edible, herbaceous perennial, small white flowers, terminal spike, herb, native to India, China, Southeast Asia, and New Guinea, cultivated for more than 5,000 years, semi hardy annual, kitchen garden, fragrant, aromatic, companion plant with tomatoes, 30–130cm tall, insect pollinated, best growth in hot, dry conditions, well drained, full sun, picking the leaves off the plant helps promote growth, small black seeds, antifungal and insect-repelling properties,
