Basil Seeds - Purple Dark Opal, ORGANIC
Best organic herb for gardeners seeking striking color and sharp flavor.
Cultivate the striking Purple Dark Opal Basil, an organic annual herb known for its ornamental appeal and distinct flavor. This variety offers a slightly sharper taste than common sweet basils, and its deep purple hue is perfect for infusing vinegars. Plants reach 18 to 24 inches tall. For best results, sow seeds directly or transplant after the last frost, ensuring full sun and well-draining soil. Regular harvesting of the foliage and pinching of flower spikes promotes bushier growth and extends your leaf supply for fresh or dried culinary use.
$3.95
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
270
/ 5876
#270 in Seeds & Seed Tape
Price vs Category Average
-63%
Below average
Botanical Name
Ocimum basilicum
/ Ocimum basilicum
Who it's for
- Gardeners seeking vibrant aesthetic appeal for landscapes and plates
- Health-conscious growers prioritizing chemical-free organic gardening practices
- Home cooks desiring classic aromatic herbs for culinary creations
Who should skip it
- Busy gardeners unable to commit to regular pruning schedules
- Gardeners in cooler climates or those with limited sun exposure
- Beginners looking for low-maintenance, pest-resistant plant varieties
Performance breakdown
Ornamental Impact
Deep purple foliage provides a striking visual contrast in any garden.
Culinary Versatility
Sharp flavor profile excels in infused vinegars and gourmet kitchen applications.
Germination Reliability
Certified organic seeds ensure consistent growth when soil temperatures are met.
Growth Manageability
Pinching flower spikes easily maintains a bushy, productive plant structure.
Harvest Window
Standard 70-85 day maturity offers a predictable timeline for seasonal harvests.
Cultivation Flexibility
Adapts well to both direct sowing and transplanting methods for gardeners.
Key Specs
Botanical Name
Ocimum basilicum
Minimum Seeds per Packet
90
Packet Weight
3g
Days to Harvest
70-85
Seed Depth
1/4"
Sun Requirement
Full Sun
Mature Spacing
10-14 inches apart
Soil Temperature
65-85 ℉
Features
- Ornamental herb with deep purple foliage
- Fragrant and tasty with a sharper flavor
- Color translates well into purple vinegar
- Encourages bushier plants when harvested regularly
- Suitable for direct seeding or transplanting
- Organic seed certification
- Grows up to 24 inches tall
What customers say
Customer sentiment centers on the striking aesthetic appeal and reliable performance of these organic basil seeds. Reviewers consistently praise the deep, almost black purple foliage, noting it adds dramatic visual contrast to gardens and containers. The organic certification is a significant draw for sustainability focused consumers. Seed viability is excellent, with many reporting quick and vigorous sprouting, confirming high quality control. The flavor is described as robust and true to basil, often featuring a pleasant peppery note. While strong sunlight is needed to maintain the deepest color, overall satisfaction is very high. This specialty seed is viewed as a premium, reliable choice that delivers unique beauty and strong growth.
Know before you buy
Purple Dark Opal basil has a slightly sharper, more robust flavor profile than traditional sweet basil. While it still offers that classic herbal aroma, the taste is a bit more intense, making it an excellent choice for infused vinegars or adding a pop of color to salads.
Yes, these plants reach a manageable height of 18 to 24 inches, making them well-suited for containers. Ensure your pot has good drainage and receives full sun to keep the plants healthy and productive.
To promote a fuller, bushier shape, regularly harvest the foliage and pinch off any flower spikes as they appear. This prevents the plant from focusing its energy on seed production and encourages it to continue growing new, flavorful leaves.
You can do either. These seeds are suitable for direct sowing once the soil has warmed to at least 65°F, or you can start them indoors and transplant them after the last frost has passed.
For optimal growth and airflow, space your plants 10 to 14 inches apart. This spacing helps prevent overcrowding and ensures each plant gets the full sun it needs to maintain its deep purple color.
Yes, these Purple Dark Opal basil seeds are certified organic, ensuring they are grown and processed according to organic standards.
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