Ocimum basilicum var. (Columnar Basil) is also known as Greek Basil. This basil is a perennial. It is an aromatic herbaceous herb. It has a stately columnar appearance and lush green leaves. It grows in the full sun to part shade in well-drained moist soil. It has average water needs. Do not overwater.
Columnar basil is a strong flavoured basil. It is a culinary herb that can be used in the same way as Sweet Basil, in Italian, Mediterranean and Asian dishes. It is a good herb for pesto.
It is a repellent for Aphids, flies and mites. The Columnar Basil does not seed and die. Make use of the leaves as this will encourage new growth. You can even cut the plant back later in the season to promote a second growth that will allow you to have the Basil over a longer period. You can harvest leaves throughout the year in frost free areas as it does not die down. Plant it in your herb patch or in containers