or Holy Basil (Ocimum sanctum)
Tulsi has been honored in India as one of its most sacred plants for over 3,000 years. In ancient times it was called the “Queen of Herbs”, and considered to be the living gateway between heaven and earth. In India it is often planted in and around homes, since it is thought to bring good luck. As the herb moved along the trade routes from Asia to Europe, early Christians considered it sacred and called it “holy basil”. It is has many healthful properties and as an adaptogen, it is an herb that is useful in building and nourishing good health all around.
Growing Tulsi
There are several different varieties of holy basil – some perennial and others annual. The holy basil variety that we grow is commonly known as Rama, and is an annual that we plant from seed. Like the common culinary basil, Ocimum basilicum, tulsi is native to India and western Asia. So it prefers hot weather and lots of sunshine. Here in the Northwest, we find that it is best to wait until sometime in early June to plant the tiny black seeds. The seeds will germinate in as little as 1 week or 2, and leaves should be ready for harvest in 3-4 weeks. We grow it in our veggie garden where it gets watered regularly, which helps it grow vigorously. Basils, including holy basil, can grow well in containers, just be sure to water it regularly to keep it from drying out.
Growing Tulsi
There are several different varieties of holy basil – some perennial and others annual. The holy basil variety that we grow is commonly known as Rama, and is an annual that we plant from seed. Like the common culinary basil, Ocimum basilicum, tulsi is native to India and western Asia. So it prefers hot weather and lots of sunshine. Here in the Northwest, we find that it is best to wait until sometime in early June to plant the tiny black seeds. The seeds will germinate in as little as 1 week or 2, and leaves should be ready for harvest in 3-4 weeks. We grow it in our veggie garden where it gets watered regularly, which helps it grow vigorously. Basils, including holy basil, can grow well in containers, just be sure to water it regularly to keep it from drying out.
