Magic Mountain basil is a sweet and edible variety of basil, known for its deep purple-hued leaves and large, deeply colored flowers all summer. These leaves are perfect for adding flavor to pesto, sauces, salads, and meat dishes. Basil leaves can be eaten fresh or dried and offer numerous health benefits.
Magic Mountain basil is a popular choice for its beauty and ability to attract pollinators. It is less sensitive to cold than regular basil and can be used for infusions or to flavor culinary dishes. The plant’s toxins can be more harmful to ruminants (such as cattle) than to people. As a kitchen herb, it is one of the most mineral-rich and tasty options.
The leaves can be used for infusions or to flavor culinary dishes, and they can be added at the end of cooking to preserve their aroma. However, the basil leaves have a strong flavor and are not suitable for consumption due to its fast growth and potential depletion of soil nutrients over time.
Magic Mountain basil is a popular patio plant for large containers and is less sensitive to cold than regular basil. In summer, small, highly honey-scented flowers appear in spikes, and the leaves can be used for infusions or to flavor dishes. Both the leaves and flowers are edible, making it an excellent choice for pesto, garnishes, and other dishes.
In summary, Magic Mountain basil is a beautiful and nutritious basil variety that can be enjoyed fresh or dried. Its leaves and flowers are also edible, making it a versatile addition to any kitchen.
📹 AMAZING EDIBLE Perennial African Blue Basil “Just Keeps On Giving!” (STORY 21)
Have you ever heard of an edible perennial called African Blue Basil? This herb is amazing and just keeps on giving as it’s …
Is there non-edible basil?
Basil, a common cooking herb with various varieties and flavors, has over 4, 000 years of history and is believed to have originated in Africa. It has been associated with death, relationships, the devil, chastity, and was once thought to induce the growth of scorpions in the brain. Basil made its way to Britain in the 16th century and then to North America. The wide range of basil varieties with different leaf colors, forms, and flowers makes it an “ornamental edible” as well.
The top photo shows the use of basil as part of a planting scheme years ago at Olbrich Botanical Gardens (Madison, WI). The dark maroon leaf plans are called “Dark Opal” basils (Ocimum basilicum) that were used not for culinary purposes but for the aesthetic contribution of those dark leaves. The variety “Pluto” is a tight, compact variety that only gets 8″ tall and 8″ wide, perfect for a container component. The variety “Aristotle” is another compact, mounded basil that rounds out nicely like a green soccer ball. Basil does prefer full sun and moist, well-drained soil.
At RBG, they have probably grown and displayed over 100 varieties of basil, with many of them being very prominent in their collections. Dark or variegated leaves certainly have merit, as do those with tight forms. However, there are many that have wonderful flowers that make them a decent bedding plant that can be used in groupings or singularly. Basil flowers, like the leaves, are also edible. Some of the best varieties for showing blooms include “Thai Siam Queen”, “Magical Michael”, “Oriental Breeze”, and “Queen of Sheba”.
Fresh basil is quite valuable in the home garden, and at the author’s home, they always have sweet basil growing in containers right outside the back door all summer long. Basil responds to multiple cuttings and abuse and will continue to generate more growth during the warmer parts of the growing season. The convenience of using fresh basil leaves and knowing all the inputs in to that plant (soil, watering, fertilizer, etc.) is nice, but consider when they were picked, how far they were shipped, and if they aren’t organic, there may be some “unknowns” involved with their growth and maintenance.
RBG members are invited to a pre-sale on Friday, May 11, and get 10 off for the entire duration of the sale. Consider the culinary value of this diverse herb, but note some of the ornamental differences in these varieties. The merits of colorful leaves, interesting forms, and beautiful flowers make basil more than just a utilitarian herb. Consider the potential of this “King of Herbs” in your own garden.
When should you not use basil?
This blog post provides tips on how to keep basil fresh and prevent it from going bad. It outlines signs of basil deterioration, such as wilting or discolored leaves, mold growth, slimy texture, and an off-putting odor. Whether you’re a newcomer or a seasoned chef, this post aims to provide information on how to keep basil fresh until you’re ready to cook with it again. It’s essential to be aware of these signs and take necessary precautions to ensure the freshness of your basil.
How much basil is safe to eat daily?
Basil leaves can have various side effects, including Eugenol overdose, blood thinning, hypoglycemia, allergies, and pregnancy complications. Excessive consumption of basil leaves can lead to Eugenol overdose, which can cause bleeding during coughs, rapid breathing, and blood in the urine. Blood thinning can occur if basil leaves are consumed excessively, especially if the user is already on anti-clogging or blood-thinning medications. Hypoglycemia can occur due to basil’s ability to reduce blood sugar levels, so excessive consumption is not recommended.
Allergies and pregnancy complications can also occur, with basil having long-term effects on pregnant women and the baby. It is recommended to limit basil consumption to 6-10 leaves per day to avoid these side effects. It is also important to note that spirulina has numerous health benefits for weight loss and overall health.
What does diseased basil look like?
Gray mold is a brown to gray fungal growth that manifests on leaves and stems, often appearing as a dense, fuzzy mold. Infected leaves die and drop from the plant, and severe lesions on the main stem may result in mortality.
Is my basil ruined if it flowers?
Basil is still edible after it flowers, but it depends on the type of basil. If the basil has just started developing baby buds, it can be enjoyed. If the flowers are large and well-established, the leaves may lose their flavor and be bitter. When basil plants flower, they transition from leaf production to reproduction, producing flowers and seed pods once pollinated. It’s important to choose the right type of basil for your garden and avoid consuming it by deer.
Can I eat basil from my garden?
How to Use Fresh Basil Leaves. Growing basil right outside your door is a must for enjoying this herb’s full flavor, either fresh or cooked. After harvesting basil, toss a handful of leaves on top of a pizza or garnish your favorite pasta dish. Also, add a basil leaf or two to lemonade to make a refreshing treat.
The best time to plant basil outdoors is in early spring, approximately two weeks after the last frost. You can start seeds indoors six weeks before the last frost, but you will want to wait until the soil has reliably warmed to at least 50 degrees Fahrenheit before planting basil in the ground.
Depending on the climate and growing conditions, a basil plant lasts about four to six months. It may survive longer if the plant is grown indoors (or without the threat of chilly temperatures).
Can you eat straight up basil?
Raw basil leaves are safe to eat, provided they are properly washed or rinsed to prevent food-borne pathogens from entering the dish. However, not everyone should consume basil as a supplement, especially women who are breastfeeding, those taking blood clotting medication, and those with inflammatory bowel conditions like IBS. They may experience bloating, abdominal pain, and other side effects. Consultation with a healthcare provider can help determine the safe amount of basil to add to one’s diet.
In terms of food production, dried basil should be from a supplier who has meticulously processed it to ensure the distinct flavor of pesto sauce shines through. This involves every step from start to finish, ensuring the maximum amount of flavor and nutrition remains in the dried basil. Consulting with a healthcare provider can help determine the appropriate amount of basil to add to one’s diet.
Why don’t we chew basil leaves?
Tulsi leaves contain high amounts of mercury and iron, which can damage teeth and cause discoloration when chewed. They are slightly acidic, which can wear away tooth enamel if consumed in large quantities. Fresh juice from Tulsi leaves is used as a home remedy for mouth ulcers, but it is advised to avoid chewing raw Tulsi leaves. Nutritionist Parveen Verma agrees that while Tulsi contains mercury, it is not harmful for dental health and there is no solid evidence to prove tooth decay. Raw Tulsi leaves should be gulped down with water instead of chewing.
Tulsi tea is a great way to consume Tulsi, as it boosts immunity, fights germs, heals skin disorders like acne, and controls blood sugar levels. To make a herbal and caffeine-free tea, boil ¼ cup of Tulsi leaves with water, add honey and lime juice, and strain. Sip gently.
Which basil leaves are edible?
Basil is a versatile herb that can be found in various varieties, including Genovese, Thai, Purple, Lemon, Cinnamon, and Greek. These varieties offer a variety of flavor and fragrance, making them perfect for cooking. Genovese basil, also known as sweet basil or sweet Genovese, is the most common variety found in supermarkets. Its oval-shaped leaves, about 2-3 inches long, have a strong aroma and peppery flavor, making it a classic choice for pesto, Caprese salad, and pizza. Basil is easy to grow in the South due to its tolerance for high heat, making it an ideal addition to any garden.
Is it safe to eat basil flowers?
Basil plants are versatile and can be used fresh or dried in various dishes, with a light anise flavor that complements fish dishes like Thai curries and chicken noodle soup. They can also be used in salad dressings, fruit salsas, ice cream sauces, or as a fresh garnish. If you’re concerned about environmentally friendly gardening practices or want to attract natural pollinators, basil plants can be started indoors and transplanted outdoors. Adult bees feed on the pollen and nectar produced by the flowers. Basil flowers can also be used to create homemade herbal vinegar and as a decorative garnish for drinks.
Can you eat any type of basil?
Basil, a member of the mint family, has various types with unique characteristics such as plant size, leaf shape, color, and flavor. The most common culinary type is sweet basil, but specialty types include Thai, purple, lemon, and small-leaved bush types. Basil seeds are not always true to type, so it is essential to obtain high-quality seeds with a high germination percentage. There are various types of basil, including sweet/pesto, Thai, purple, bush, and scented. The most common type is sweet basil, while specialty types include Thai, purple, lemon, and small-leaved bush types. Basil is resistant to Fusarium wilt.
📹 Expert sommelier technique
Not a lot of people know the importance of aerating wine when tasting. This fellow shows how it’s done properly.
Here in USA Upper South (Virginia)- I saw this in a nursery and picked it up on a whim. It was just a 4 inch pot, and a bit wobbly at that, but I hadn’t heard of it and stuck it in near my tomato sauce patch. We have clay soil here, which I had amended a bit with some compost. Planted it with a couple of peppers and some marigolds all at the same time. Boom! The African Blue Basil EXPLODED. It just took off! I planted it in early june, and by now- mid July, I have already cut it back twice, harvested much for pesto, and taken some cuttings to propagate. I have never seen a plant take off like that. Don’t know if it will winter over or come back here… but even if it doesn’t, I will have made and frozen lots of pesto cubes to season many things all winter.
Malaysian here, I wonder if the sterility is what makes it perennial vs the temperature. Because here in the tropics, I have kept thai basil for years and they are definitely perennial, and are profuse bloomers too (but they set seed like crazy and the seedlings end up in my kitchen or in my guinea pigs’ bowls). Tulsi is also in the same genus and those guys grow into big shrubs in temples and are seemingly immortal despite all the neglect 😂
I was at this African restaurant. The lady that owns the restaurant is from Cameroon and we were talking for a while. She said she knows a lot about health and eating healthy so on the way out. I said what’s good for adrenal fatigue and low libido. So she handed me a spice called African Blue Basil. She said you can make a tea out of it. So I actually just got done driving a cup of it.
Thanks boss!!! I got my blue Basil’s growing in my home gym under my grow light down in Melbourne with a Olympia dehumidifier on 50% humidity with a full spectrum grow light and heater set to 25°C and the grow light is set on a timer to be in winter auto turning on at 4am until 8pm but in summer the spot in my home gym cops the afternoon sun so the grow light automatically turns off at midday, I feed them the osmocote indoor plant food plus slow release pellets and super feed in osmocote premium plus and they glow! Also I have them in these amazing decor self watering plant pots, there a great pot with the handy handle roll lip and there easy to drain with the nice spout hole on the bottom and I put them on a tipe V LEVEDE plant stand! It’s going good!!! Because it’s indoors especially in my posh apartment in Melbourne I give the top of the potting mix a light mist spray with industrial MORTEIN from a hills spray bottle, that does allot, also I treated one of my blue basil with fungacide, pyrethrum and mite spray for herbs from Bunnings but that didn’t make the plant Soo happy for a while plus I wanna eat it usually so next plants I just treated the soil only and that should be good!!! The plants is growing great the blue basil is ALLWASE so reliable, I saw online it said there’s even ways to make insect repellent from it too! I love eating it!