The leaves are smooth, flat, and large, about 3 to 4 inches long and borne very profusely on dense, full little plants a foot tall and 8 to 10 inches wide. The shape and texture of the leaves will remind you of large flat-leafed Italian types, and the intensity of the bite lives up to this reputation! The plant itself is so charming that it makes a nice container choice as well as accent plantings in the herb garden or a very showy edging for the annual bed.

Best of all, Red Rubin is the easiest Basil to grow from seed you will find! Its germination rate is much higher than that of other varieties, so you can count on a few extra plants from every packet of seed! Like all Basils, it can be direct-sown in spring or begun indoors about 6 to 8 weeks before last frost. Maintain a temperature of around 70 degrees F and expect to see little sprouts in 7 to 10 days!

If you want to use the leaves fresh, pick them as they mature. For drying them, wait until the flowers begin to open on the plant, then cut them at once (you can simply cut the entire plant and hang it upside-down, if you prefer!). You will love the sight, scent, and flavor of this delicious red-leafed Basil! Pkt is 100 seeds.