Ocimum basilicum 'Italian Large Leaf'
Overview
Uses: Culinary herb gardens, raised beds, container plantings, patio gardens, fresh kitchen harvest.
Benefits: Produces exceptionally large, smooth leaves with classic sweet basil flavor. Vigorous growth and continuous leaf production make it ideal for frequent harvesting.
USDA Hardiness Zones: Annual
Sun: Full Sun
Life Cycle: Annual
Growth Habit: Upright, Clumping — branching stems form a bushy plant.
Bloom Color: White
Foliage Color: Bright Green
Mature Height: 18–24 inches
Mature Width: 12–18 inches
Bloom Season: Mid to Late Summer
Growth Rate: Fast
Summary
Large, tender leaves and classic aroma make ‘Italian Large Leaf’ Basil a kitchen garden essential. Its broad foliage and steady growth provide a reliable supply for fresh summer cooking.
This traditional sweet basil variety responds well to regular harvesting, becoming fuller and more productive as it grows. Whether planted in garden beds or containers near the kitchen, it offers both fragrance and function throughout the season.
Care
Basil ‘Italian Large Leaf’ Care
Plant after all danger of frost has passed in warm, well-drained soil with at least six hours of direct sun daily.
Water when the top layer of soil begins to dry, maintaining consistent moisture without waterlogging. Harvest regularly to encourage branching and delay flowering.
Feed every few weeks during active growth using a balanced fertilizer or
slow release fertilizer.
Container Growing
This variety performs well in patio pots and raised planters. Containers require consistent watering and good drainage to prevent root stress.
Feed more frequently in containers, as nutrients leach out faster than in-ground plantings. Plants hardy in the ground may require winter protection when grown in containers in colder zones.
Size
What Size is the Basil ‘Italian Large Leaf’ for Sale Online?
Plants are greenhouse-grown and shipped in nursery containers appropriate to the selected size. Each plant is well-rooted and actively growing. For current measurements or sizing questions, please
contact us.
How Large Does Basil ‘Italian Large Leaf’ Grow?
Mature plants typically reach 18–24 inches tall and 12–18 inches wide, forming a dense, harvest-ready herb plant.
Additional Information
What are some common names for this plant?
Ocimum basilicum is commonly known as Sweet Basil or Genovese Basil.
Should I remove flower buds?
Pinching developing flower spikes encourages continued leaf production and a fuller plant. Browse more kitchen favorites in our
Herbs collection.
Can this basil be grown indoors?
Yes, provided it receives strong light from a sunny window or supplemental lighting. Explore additional edible options in our
Annual Vegetable Plants collection.
How often can I harvest?
Regular harvesting encourages branching and steady regrowth. Cut stems just above a leaf pair to promote continued production.
