Siam Queen Basil

Siam Queen (Ocimum basilicum) is a vibrant Thai basil with a spicy-sweet flavor and an anise-licorice aroma. Deep green leaves set off by striking purple stems and flowers make it both culinary and ornamental. Its sturdy leaves hold their shape and flavor better than other basils under high or extended cooking, ideal for curries, soups, and stir-fries.

At a glance

• Botanical name: Ocimum basilicum
• Type: Heirloom, non-GMO Thai basil
• Flavor: Spicy-sweet, anise and licorice
• Appearance: Deep green leaves, purple stems and flowers
• Use: Culinary and ornamental
• Sun: Full sun

Best for

• Thai and Asian cooking
• Curries and soups
• Stir-fries
• Ornamental herb beds
• Pollinator gardens

How to grow

Start indoors and transplant after frost, or direct sow once warm, in full sun. Pinch regularly to keep plants bushy and delay flowering. Harvest leaves often for the best flavor.

Flavor profile

Spicy and sweet with bold anise and licorice notes that hold up to cooking.

About MIgardener

MIgardener is a Michigan-based company known for affordable heirloom seeds that help home gardeners grow more food from every packet.