Basil, Dark Opal

Basil ‘Dark Opal’ is a striking variety with deep purple leaves and a subtle liquorice flavour that sets it apart from classic green basil. It’s highly aromatic, visually beautiful, and adds real depth to salads, oils, vinegars and summer dishes. The colour intensifies in full sun, making it as ornamental as it is useful in the kitchen.

It isn’t the easiest basil to grow, as it prefers consistent warmth and can be a little slower to establish, but the flavour and colour make it well worth the extra care. Grow it on a sunny windowsill, in pots, or in a sheltered spot outdoors, and pinch out the tips regularly to keep plants bushy and productive.

With the right conditions, ‘Dark Opal’ will reward you with a generous supply of richly coloured leaves throughout the season.

Standard pack: 100 seeds.

For more information on growing Basil, check out our growing guides here.