Ocimum basilicum 'Italian Large Leaf'
Overview
Uses: Culinary herb, kitchen gardens, container gardening, and pollinator plantings.
Benefits: A classic Genovese-style basil prized for its exceptionally large, aromatic leaves. Perfect for fresh salads, sauces, and homemade pesto. Fast-growing and highly fragrant!
USDA Hardiness Zones: Annual (tender perennial in zones 10–11)
Life Cycle: Warm-season annual
Sun: Full Sun
Mature Height: 18" – 24"
Mature Width: 12" – 18"
Bloom Season: Mid to Late Summer
Growth Rate: Fast
Summary
Basil ‘Italian Large Leaf’ (Ocimum basilicum) is an heirloom favorite among chefs and gardeners alike—renowned for its robust flavor, vigorous growth, and extra-large, sweetly aromatic leaves. The leaves are flatter and broader than traditional sweet basil, offering a mild, slightly spicy taste that makes it ideal for fresh caprese salads, tomato dishes, and classic pesto sauces.
Plants are highly productive, producing lush foliage all season long when regularly harvested. This variety is also adored by bees and beneficial pollinators when allowed to bloom, making it both a flavorful and ecologically friendly garden staple.
Whether grown in pots, raised beds, or traditional gardens, this basil adds both fragrance and functionality to your outdoor or kitchen space.
Care
Basil ‘Italian Large Leaf’ Care
Plant in full sun and well-drained, fertile soil after all danger of frost has passed. Basil thrives in warm weather and should not be planted until temperatures consistently remain above 55°F at night.
Water deeply when the soil begins to dry, avoiding waterlogged conditions. Harvest leaves frequently to encourage bushier growth and delay flowering. Pinch off any developing flower spikes to maintain leaf production and quality.
Feed every 3–4 weeks with a balanced fertilizer or a slow release fertilizer to support vigorous leaf growth and rich aroma.
Size
Size of Basil ‘Italian Large Leaf’ for Sale Online
Our Ocimum basilicum 'Italian Large Leaf' plants are greenhouse-grown and shipped healthy and well-rooted in their nursery pots. Each plant is appropriately sized for its container at the time of shipment. For specific size details, please contact us.
Size of Basil ‘Italian Large Leaf’ When Fully Grown
Basil ‘Italian Large Leaf’ typically grows 18"–24" tall and 12"–18" wide, forming a bushy, productive herb ideal for frequent harvesting.
Additional Information
Should I let Basil ‘Italian Large Leaf’ flower?
Only if you’re ready for it to stop producing new leaves. Regularly pinch off flower buds to keep your basil leafy and flavorful throughout the season.
Can I grow Basil indoors?
Yes! Basil thrives on a sunny windowsill that receives at least 6 hours of direct light daily. Supplement with a grow light in low-light environments.
Will Basil regrow after cutting?
Absolutely. Regular pruning or harvesting encourages more branching and a continuous supply of tender, aromatic leaves all summer long.
