Purple Dark Opal Basil Seeds

Purple Dark Opal Seeds

Purple Dark Opal Basil is easily recognized by its beautiful deep purple color. This particular cultivar of Sweet basil and was introduced in Connecticut in the 1950s.

The Purple Dark Opal Basil variety is grown as much for it's ornamental and landscape garden value as for its culinary value. It's foliage is a deep purple color and it retains the color all season. Vinegar made from this Basil will also be a beautiful purple color.

Purple Dark Opal Basil is said to have a licorice taste. For best flavor, leaves should be harvested before flowering.

As with all basils, you can also use this basil in the garden as a natural insecticide to repel aphids, mites, and tomato hornworms.

Also available:
Licorice Basil Seeds
Lemon Basil Seeds
Amethyst Basil Seeds
Herbes De Provence

Recipe for Fresh, Purple Pesto:

Submitted by Kristen in Tifton, Georgia

• 3 Cups Fresh Purple Dark Opal Basil leaves
• 1 Cups Fresh Italian Parsley leaves
• 3 cloves fresh garlic
• 1/2 Cup Pine Nuts
• Juice from 1/2 lemon
• 1 tsp. Sea salt
• 1 ½ Cups Olive oil
• 1/2 Cup Parmesan cheese

1. Process all ingredients except parmesan in blender.
2. Add parmesan and pulse to incorporate.
3. Add additional oil in small amounts until desired consistency is reached.
4. Store in refrigerator.

Companion Plants for Basil : These plants will grow well with Basil

• Tomatoes - Basil is said to make Tomatoes taste better


• Peppers


• Oregano


• Asparagus- Basil repels Asparagus beetle


• Petunias


• Chamomile- Increases the essential oils in herbs (incl. Basil)


• Anise- Increases the essential oils in herbs (incl. Basil)


• Basil repels mosquitos and flies

Repellent Plants for Basil: Avoid planting these within close proximity to Basil

• Common Rue


• Sage