Content
- Basil - indispensable in the herbal spiral
- Origin and description
- Protect basil from nudibranchs
- Location in the herb spiral
- harvest
- Related species and popular varieties
- Tips
Basil should not be missing in any herb snail
Basil - indispensable in the herbal spiral
The word "basilikos" comes from the Greek and means "royal". The name of the herb is mainly due to its noble fragrance. The bushy waking plant is not only indispensable in the Mediterranean cuisine, it is also one of the most important medicinal plants of Ayurveda, the traditional Indian medicine. For these reasons, basil is one of the most important herbs and is therefore indispensable in the herbal spiral.
Origin and description
Many basil species are native to Africa and South America. Already 1000 v. Chr. Chr. The herb was cultivated in front India. In the 12th century it came to Central Europe. In India, basil has above all a religious significance; the Indian basil (Ocinum sanctum), also called "holy basil", is dedicated to the god Vishnu and is regarded as a panacea as well as a rejuvenating agent, but also as an aphrodisiac. The usually one-year-old basil, depending on the variety between 20 and 70 inches high. The cross-leaves may vary greatly depending on the species and variety. The white flower appears between June and September. Typical is the aromatic scent of the entire plant.
Protect basil from nudibranchs
As a rule, basil is sown, preferred in the room and only released in mid-May. As it belongs to the declared "favorite food" of nudibranchs, it is safe only in the upper part of the herb spiral or in pots. Reseeding is possible until September. When sowing, be careful not to cover the seeds with soil: basil is one of the light germs.
Location in the herb spiral
Basil is very warm and sensitive to waterlogging, so it needs a well-drained, but nutrient-rich soil. It therefore belongs in the upper to middle range of the Kräuterspirale, in a very sunny place. In case of dryness must be watered regularly, because basil does not like a stunned soil, but it still likes to wet.
harvest
Just before flowering is the best time to pluck the leaves that should be used as fresh as possible. Basil quickly loses its aroma when dried, but can be easily put into oil or even frozen.
Related species and popular varieties
Basil is roughly divided into two subspecies, there are also a variety of very different varieties:
Tips
Plant basil, thyme, marjoram and oregano together in the herbal spiral, so you already have the most important herbs for the Italian cuisine together.