What makes Purple Dark Opal Basil stand out?
Purple Dark Opal Basil has striking deep burgundy-purple leaves and pink flowers that make it as ornamental as it is edible. The leaves add rich color and a sweet, slightly spicy basil flavor to salads, vinegars, and garnishes.
Does Purple Dark Opal Basil taste like green basil?
It has a classic sweet basil flavor with a slightly stronger, spicier edge than green sweet basil. It is especially prized for making a beautiful ruby-colored basil vinegar or oil.
When and how do I plant Dark Opal Basil?
Start indoors about 6 weeks before the last frost or direct sow when soil is warm, above 65 F. Barely cover the seeds and grow in full sun, which helps develop the deepest purple color.
How do I get the darkest purple leaves?
Give the plants full sun for at least 6 to 8 hours a day, as strong light intensifies the purple pigment. Occasional green leaves can appear and are perfectly normal for this variety.
How should I space and size the plants?
Plants reach about 18 to 20 inches tall. Space or thin them to roughly 10 inches apart, or grow one per 8-inch container for a colorful patio accent.
How many seeds come in the packet?
Each packet holds about 400 heirloom, non-GMO seeds. Pinch out flower buds to keep leaves coming, or let a plant flower late in the season to save seed.
How is purple basil different from green basil?
Dark Opal has deep purple leaves and a slightly spicier, clove-like flavor, plus striking color for garnishes and infusions.
Will it turn my vinegar pink?
Yes. Steeping the purple leaves gives vinegars and syrups a lovely rosy-red color as well as basil flavor.
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