Wild Basil

Clinopodium vulgare

Physical Characteristics

Clinopodium vulgare is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.5 m (1ft 8in) by 0.5 m (1ft 8in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7 and is not frost tender. It is in flower from July to September, and the seeds ripen from August to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, Lepidoptera (Moths & Butterflies), insects. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

Most of Europe, including Britain, south and west to N. Africa, Siberia, central and western Asia.

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Edible Uses: Condiment Tea Edible leaves - used fresh or dried as a flavouring in cooked foods[5, 8, 12, 183] or fresh as a flavouring in salads[177]. A sweet and aromatic herb tea is made from the fresh leaves[183].

Medicinal Uses

Aromatic Astringent Cardiotonic Carminative Diaphoretic Expectorant The plant is aromatic, astringent, cardiotonic, carminative, diaphoretic and expectorant. An infusion of the plant helps to overcome weak digestion.

Known Hazards

None known