Ocimum Genovese (USDA Organic) Basil, Ocimum basilicum 'Genovese', has leaves that have a familiar sweet scent. Never make a tomato dish without a few fresh leaves! The aroma is the most recognizable smell of all basils. It is most commonly recommended to be used fresh in cooked recipes, it is generally added at the last moment, as cooking quickly destroys the flavour. Basil 'Genovese' is known to relieve nausea and upset stomach when taken as a tea. Plant 1 to 2 weeks after the last average frost date. Basil prefers well drained rich soil and full sun to part shade. Mulch after the plants are established and the soil temperature has stabilized. Harvest when Genovese flowers form but before the flowers have opened. Hang bunches in a dry, dark, cool location until thoroughly dried. Once dried, package in the container of your choice. The fresh herb can be kept for a short time in plastic bags in the refrigerator, or for a longer period in the freezer, after being blanched quickly in boiling water. This plant can be a perennial in zones 9-11. In zones 3-8 it is an annual only. (Click Merchant link below for full description)