Herb
African Blue
C tier
African Blue is a vigorous perennial hybrid basil (often O. kilimandscharicum × basilicum) with purple veining and camphor-spice notes—more ornamental and landscape herb than pesto basil. Use sparingly in savoury infusions; camphor can dominate. Flowers feed bees. Not a Genovese substitute. Tender perennial in frost-free zones.
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Unit
Characteristics
Preparations
ChoppedDriedFreshGarnishInfusedPestoTorn
Traits
CamphorCamphor NotesOrnamentalPerennialPerennial HybridSpicySterile Flowers
History
US
African Blue hybrid basil entered ornamental herb trade.
Landscapers planted African Blue for continuous bloom.
Experimental cooks used leaves in strong meat rubs.
Variety stayed popular as a perennial basil looker.