Basil 'Dark Opal'
Ocimum basilicum
 
‘Dark Opal’ is fast-growing red basil.Slightly ruffled plants are mostly purple, with 10% variegated or all green for a great color combo. Leaves avg. 1 1/2-3" at full size. Red leaves and purple flowers make attractive garnishes and cut flowers. AAS winner.
 
Details:
Plant life cycle: annual
Site: Full sun
Height: 16-18”
Days to germinate: 5-7 days
Days to maturity: 65-75 days
Sow:1/4"
Plant spacing: 9”
Pinch: when 8” tall 
Approx seeds per packet: 50
 
How to Grow:
Sowing:Direct seed (recommended): Plant seeds 1/4" deep, 2-3 seeds per inch, in rows 18" apart. Firm the soil over the seeds. Thinning is not necessary, but a final spacing of 4-8" apart produces healthy, full plants.
Transplant: Sow indoors 6 weeks prior to setting out. Plant 1/4" deep and keep at 70°F (21°C) for best germination. Transplant to the field when seedlings have 3-4 sets of leaves, spacing at 4-8" apart in rows 18" apart.
 
How to harvest:
How to harvest:It is best done in the early morning when the temperature is cooler and the leaves are less likely to wilt. For foliage cut study stems when plants start to flower. Cut the entire plant 4-6" above the ground to promote a second growth. Leaves are easily bruised when picking, so handle carefully.
 
Vase life: Basil will last for at 7 days