2010 Basil

Magical Michael

Magical Michael basil has Incredible fragrance from a compact, ornamental bush making this is a bee magnet. Lush aromatic, green leaves are rich in essential oils for cooking with lots of cream-white blossoms. Young leaves are great for cooking, plants used by top landscapers for unique presentation. The small flowers are attractive for use as a garnish, adding color to any salad since the calices are

Marseilles

France's premier heirloom, Marseilles basil is a dwarf, compact variety loaded with full sized leaves. Hundreds of medium-sized, very aromatic leaves with that classic deep rich basil flavor. Never bitter. “Marseilles” is the traditional basil used in pistou, the Provencal version of pesto. It's considered by some to be the very best basilin France, certainly the best strain of bush basil there is.

Sicilian

Sicilian basil is a select Genovese type procured directly from Sicily; the original, true Sicilian strain. Extra large 4" blistered leaves and a very pungent scent that's even a bit more assertive than Genovese. Used in Sicily as much for its strong scent as its sweet flavor. A favorite traditional Sicilian dish is Pesto trapanese (Sicilian basil and almond pesto) that is highly flavored.

Violetto Italian

Italian Violetto basil is a dark red/purple with very glossy savoyed leaves on full bushy plants. Intensely powerful sweet scent and flavor, with a slight clove flavor that will take you by surprise. Not to be confused with small-leaved red/purple varieties with very mild flavor and scent.