Johnny's Selected Seeds Dark Opal Basil Seed
Best ornamental herb for home gardeners seeking vibrant garden aesthetics.
This fast-growing variety offers striking purple foliage and flowers, making it as beautiful in a bouquet as it is in the kitchen. It provides a reliable, intense flavor profile that elevates everything from simple salads to complex pasta dishes.
$5.25
at
Johnny's Selected Seeds
Who it's for
- Gardeners seeking high-impact visual interest in edible landscapes
- Home growers prioritizing high germination rates and reliable plant vigor
- Home chefs wanting unique colors and complex herbal notes
Who should skip it
- Perfectionists requiring absolute color uniformity in their garden beds
- Impatient gardeners wanting the fastest possible harvest turnaround
- Urban growers with limited or indirect sunlight in their spaces
Performance breakdown
Visual Impact
Deep purple foliage creates a striking contrast in any garden bed.
Culinary Versatility
Intense flavor profile excels in both savory dishes and fresh garnishes.
Ease of Cultivation
Fast-growing variety that thrives reliably in standard sunny garden conditions.
Harvest Consistency
Provides a steady supply of leaves throughout the entire growing season.
Ornamental Utility
Purple blooms and vibrant leaves work beautifully in fresh-cut arrangements.
Genetic Reliability
Open-pollinated, award-winning genetics ensure predictable and high-quality plant performance.
Key Specs
Latin Name
Ocimum basilicum
Days to Maturity
70 days
Life Cycle
Annual
Plant Type
Herb
Sunlight Exposure
Full Sun
Mature Height
16-18 inches
Plant Spacing
4-8 inches
Planting Depth
0.25 inches
Seed Count
200 seeds (packet)
Variety Type
Open-Pollinated
Know before you buy
Still have a question?
Ask Metto anything about the Johnny's Selected Seeds Dark Opal Basil Seed before you decide.