Ocimum × africanum 'Lime'
lime basil
A short-lived bushy perennial to 50cm high and is often grown as an annual culinary herb. The dark green leaves are aromatic with a citrus scent; spikes of small whitish flowers appear in late summer and early autumn
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Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metresTime to ultimate height
1–2 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | White | Green | ||
| Autumn | White | Green | ||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H2Botanical details
- Family
- Lamiaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Bushy
- Genus
Ocimum can be aromatic annuals, evergreen perennials or shrubs with opposite, linear to broadly-ovate leaves and small tubular white or pinkish flowers in whorls forming a spike
- Name status
Unresolved
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in a light, well-drained, fertile soil in a sheltered position in full sun. May be grown as a short-lived sub-shrub in mild areas or over-wintered under glass
Propagation
Propagate by softwood cuttings
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- City and courtyard gardens
- Patio and container plants
Pruning
Pinch out flowerheads as they appear to ensure continued leaf growth. Cut back after flowering
Pests
Diseases
May be affected by powdery mildews
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