Basil Ocimum basilicum (Sweet Basil)

Ocimum basilicum 'Basilicum Piccolino' (Piccolino Basil)

Embrace the charm of miniature perfection with Ocimum basilicum 'Basilicum Piccolino', a delightful dwarf basil variety. This compact powerhouse forms a neat, rounded mound of tiny, intensely aromatic, bright green leaves that pack all the classic sweet basil flavour into a petite package. Perfectly suited for sunny windowsills, small pots, or as an edible border, 'Piccolino' is ideal for fresh garnishes, adding a burst of flavour to individual servings, or for those with limited space who still desire the joy of homegrown herbs.

Plant Placement Area:

• Full sun: Thrives with at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. This is crucial for dense growth and potent flavour.

• Warmth and shelter: Prefers warm, stable temperatures and absolute protection from cold winds or frost. It is very sensitive to cold.

• Ideal for containers: Its naturally compact and bushy habit makes it perfect for small pots, window boxes, kitchen windowsills, or as an edging plant in herb gardens.

• Good air circulation: Appreciates air movement around its foliage.

Benefits:

• Intense classic basil flavour: Despite its small size, its flavour is robust and aromatic, making it perfect for culinary use.

• Compact growth: Excellent for small spaces, urban gardens, or indoor growing.

• Perfect for garnishing: The small leaves are ideal for sprinkling over dishes or decorating individual plates.

• Continuous harvest: Regular pinching and harvesting encourage ongoing production of fresh leaves.

• Easy to grow: A rewarding herb for gardeners of all experience levels.

Watering Tips:

• Keep consistently moist but not soggy: Water regularly, especially during warm weather, to keep the soil evenly moist. Piccolino Basil does not like to dry out completely.

• Avoid overwatering: Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot. Never let the pot sit in standing water.

• Water at the base: Water the soil directly to avoid wetting the foliage excessively, which can help prevent fungal issues.

• Use room-temperature water: Cold water can shock the plant.

Care Tips:

• Pinch regularly: To maintain its compact, bushy shape and encourage continuous leaf production, regularly pinch off the tips of stems and any developing flower buds. Flowering can diminish leaf flavour.

• Rich, well-draining soil: Plant in fertile, well-draining potting mix.

• Fertilize lightly: If grown in pots, feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 2-3 weeks during the growing season.

• Warmth is key: Do not expose to temperatures below 10°C (50°F). It is strictly an annual in cooler climates.

• Harvesting: Harvest leaves as needed by pinching off small clusters. Regular harvesting encourages more growth.

Light Level:

• Full Sun: Absolutely essential for robust growth, the most intense flavour, and a compact, bushy form. Needs at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.

• Avoid Partial to Deep Shade: Will lead to leggy, sparse growth and reduced flavour.

Toxicity:

• Non-toxic: Like other forms of Ocimum basilicum, 'Piccolino' basil is safe for human consumption and is generally considered non-toxic to pets.

Metafields for Ocimum basilicum 'Basilicum Piccolino'

• Plant Characteristics:

  • Value: Culinary Herb, Aromatic, Dwarf Variety, Compact, Small Leaves, Edible

• Class:

  • Value: Herb, Annual (typically), Edible Plant

• Suitable Space:

  • Value: Kitchen Windowsill, Small Pots, Patio Container, Herb Garden Edging, Balcony

• Sunlight:

  • Value: Full Sun

• Tag:

  • Value: Edible, Culinary, Fragrant, Easy Care, Dwarf, Compact, Garnish, Kitchen Plant, Outdoor Plant