Non-GMO Lemon Basil Herb plants (Ocimum basilicum x citriodorum) can reach up to 2’ tall as compact bushes. As late summer to early fall approaches, Lemon Basil grows light-green stems with white flowers— giving off a bright lemon-scented aroma. As their glossy leaves become 1-2” long, they will be ready to harvest. Non-sweet varieties such as Lemon Basil continue to grow as a warm season crop until the first frost arrives. These herbs prefer to have their flowers pinched back as they develop, in order to maintain their peak flavor and oil properties.
Basil in general, is an ultimate hybrid herb and has lots of different varieties. As basil is also ancient and has been crossbred overtime, it becomes a challenge for gardeners to pin down a single origin. Basil can be classified as either sweet or non-sweet. The more common types are considered sweet. For example, a cultivar that isn’t sweet would be clove basil.
Lemon Basil is often grown to harvest and make into natural remedies such as soap, body wash or used to sooth as stress-relieving therapy. You can also make homemade lip balm by infusing fresh Lemon Basil leaves in olive oil for 2 months, then using warm beeswax or cocoa butter to mix into a moisturising treatment.
As a hybrid variety that provides a mild sweetness with bright flavor, Lemon Basil compliments dishes such as baked coconut chicken, which is called “Ayam panggang sulawesi” in Indonesia. The white lemon-scented flowers can also be added fresh to salads or as a holiday drink garnish.
As a late summer to early fall crop, Lemon Basil plants will not only brighten the overall aroma, but they can repel unwanted pests such as mosquitoes. This tangy and citrusy basil makes a great ornamental addition to your herb garden—giving off a lemon scent that lasts throughout the late summer days. As basil plants are often grown as annuals, they are technically perennials and can overwinter in warmer regions. Lemon Basil Herbs are easy to grow from seed or plant in containers.