Cinnamon basil | |
---|---|
Species | Ocimum basilicum |
Cultivar | 'Cinnamon' |
Cinnamon basil is a type of basil (Ocimum basilicum). The term "cinnamon basil" can refer to a number of different varieties of basil, including as a synonym for Thai basil (O. basilicum var. thyrsiflora), as a particular cultivar of Thai basil, [1] and as a separate cultivar in its own right (i.e., O. basilicum 'Cinnamon'). [2] [3] [4] This article discusses the latter type.
Cinnamon basil, also known as Mexican spice basil, [5] has a spicy, fragrant aroma and flavor. It contains methyl cinnamate, giving it a flavor reminiscent of cinnamon. [6] Cinnamon basil has somewhat narrow, slightly serrated, dark green, shiny leaves with reddish-purple veins, which can resemble certain types of mint, and produces small, pink flowers from July to September. [5] [7] [4] [8] Its stems are dark purple. [9] Cinnamon basil grows to 18–30 inches tall. [3]
Cinnamon basil is an easy-to-grow herb. It requires six to eight hours of bright sunlight per day. Although it is often grown as an annual, it is a perennial in USDA plant hardiness zones 9–11. Cinnamon basil is sometimes planted near tomatoes and roses to discourage pests such as whiteflies. [4]
Cinnamon basil is used in teas and baked goods such as cookies and pies. [4] [2] It is also used in pastas, salads, jellies, and vinegars. [5] [7] Outside the kitchen, cinnamon basil is used in dried arrangements and as a potpourri. [7]
Cinnamon basil was taken into space by the Space Shuttle Endeavour during STS-118 and grown in an experiment in low Earth orbit on the International Space Station. [10]