Sweet basil
Ocimum basilicum has larger, smooth leaves and a sweeter scent.
Use the botanical sourceStudy first
Holy basil.
Ocimum tenuiflorum
Also found as Tulsi
A clove-scented basil, sacred in Hindu tradition, grown in courtyards and used for tea.
Sources checked 27 September 2026 · Specialist field review pending
Before any gathering or use
Medicinal-strength use may affect blood sugar and blood clotting; ask a clinician.
Where it grows
Tracked records and known growing zone
- Verified records
- 569
- People who recorded it
- 463
- Most records (northern hemisphere)
- Apr–May, Jul–Sep
- Records span
- 2010–2026
| January | 22 |
|---|---|
| February | 16 |
| March | 23 |
| April | 77 |
| May | 78 |
| June | 37 |
| July | 65 |
| August | 86 |
| September | 47 |
| October | 38 |
| November | 23 |
| December | 37 |
Research-grade iNaturalist records, snapshot Aug 27, 2026. The growing zone combines areas where different people have repeatedly verified it. Records show where people looked and found it, not current abundance or permission to gather.
01 / Learn to see
Field marks
- 01
Square stems with opposite, oval, slightly toothed leaves.
- 02
Purple or green forms, with a clove-like scent.
- 03
Slender spikes of small purple to white flowers.
These are study prompts, not a complete identification key. Confirm the full plant with a regional flora and an experienced local identifier.
02 / Resolve the differences
Look closely. Compare.
Selected comparisons only. Other lookalikes may occur locally.
03 / Meet the place
Habitat & season
Range context
Native to the Indian subcontinent; cultivated across tropical Asia.
Watch the plant stage
Leaves year-round in warm climates.
Stage guidance is not a local forecast. Check your climate, elevation and a regional source; no month-shift formula is used here.
04 / Gather with care
Documented use & care
Parts discussed: Leaf
Brew leaves as tea. Eat a few fresh leaves.
Care for the patch
Pinch tips to encourage bushy growth.
Preparation & storage essentials05 / Follow the evidence
Sources & review
- Wikipedia · Ocimum tenuiflorumBotanical description, range and documented use
- iNaturalist · Ocimum tenuiflorumTaxonomy and verified observation records
Checked 27 September 2026. Original editorial synthesis; source institutions have not reviewed or endorsed this guide. Independent botanical field review is pending. Photos illustrate specimens; they do not certify the identity of a plant you find.
Suggest a correction