Dark Opal Basil is a striking heirloom basil first grown during the 1950s at the University of Connecticut. Its smooth burgundy leaves and richly colored stems bring dramatic contrast to the herb garden, while its aroma combines licorice, mint, ginger, and sweet tea. Grow Dark Opal for distinctive fresh leaves, colorful culinary creations, fragrant containers, and a beautiful edible garden display.

Germination Rate: 97%. Test Date: 7/26. TLM.

Culinary Uses

• Fresh Salads: Tear the burgundy leaves into green salads, grain bowls, spring rolls, and fresh wraps for color and aromatic flavor.
• Pesto and Sauces: Blend Dark Opal with garlic, olive oil, nuts, and cheese for a richly colored basil sauce.
• Thai and Southeast Asian Dishes: Add fresh leaves to stir-fries, noodle dishes, curries, and rice bowls for a warm, sweet-spicy note.
• Infused Oils and Vinegars: Steep clean leaves in culinary oil or vinegar for a fragrant dressing or finishing ingredient.
• Fresh Garnishes: Use the burgundy leaves to finish pasta, pizza, vegetables, eggs, and grilled foods.
• Herbal Infusions: Use fresh or dried leaves in a traditional culinary infusion and strain before serving.

Medicinal Uses

Dark Opal Basil has a history in traditional herbal practices, where basil leaves are used in aromatic infusions and preparations. This product is sold as culinary herb seed and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before using Basil medicinally, especially if pregnant, nursing, taking medication, or managing a health condition.

Growing Directions

• Sunlight: Grow Dark Opal Basil in full sun with approximately 6–8 hours of direct light each day.
• Soil: Use fertile, well-drained soil enriched with compost. Avoid keeping the roots in standing water.
• Planting: Start indoors 4–6 weeks before the last frost or direct sow outdoors after frost danger has passed and the soil is warm.
• Spacing: Space plants approximately 12–18 inches apart to allow branching and good airflow around the colorful foliage.
• Watering: Keep soil evenly moist without overwatering. Water at the base to help keep foliage dry.
• Fertilizing: Apply compost or a balanced fertilizer at planting, then follow label directions during the season. Avoid excessive nitrogen that can dilute flavor.
• Harvesting: Pinch or cut stems just above a leaf node and harvest from the top down. Regular picking encourages a fuller, bushier plant.
• Flowering: Remove flower buds when you want to maximize leaf production, or leave selected flowers for pollinators and seed saving.

Order Dark Opal Basil Seeds Today

Order yours today and grow your own colorful Dark Opal Basil for fresh cooking and garden beauty.

Important Disclaimer

• Herbal Use Disclaimer: Information about traditional herbal uses is provided for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before using herbs medicinally.
• Variety Disclaimer: Natural variation may occur in leaf color, stem color, plant height, and flavor. Results vary with climate, soil, and gardening practices.
• Seed Storage: Store seeds in a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight. An airtight container helps protect seed viability.
• Planting Guidance: Basil is a warm-season herb. Plant after frost danger has passed and consult your local extension service for area-specific timing.

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