Basil, African Nunum

African basil is a shrub type of basil, also known as clove basil. It is a common culinary herb in West Africa and is sometimes used in Caribbean dishes. These plants will spread if left to self-sow and are known to come back year after year. They will flower year-round in the right conditions and have a unique clove-like aroma.

This huge-leaved, heat-loving Nunum basil comes from Ghana and is packed with incredible flavor. It has a rich basil taste that is perfect for making pesto. This distinctive variety has slight oregano and a mildly spicy flavor giving it a profile that stands out among basils. Add it to your salads, soups, pasta, jellies, and of course, make pesto!

Days to Maturity: 60-90 days

Plant size: 48-72” tall

Plant spacing: 14-24” apart

Sun, soil, and water requirement: African basil loves long sunny days with partial shade, and moderately rich, moist soil. Water regularly, especially during the warmer season.

Pruning: Pinch off center shoots to prevent early flowering and encourage branching. Creates bushier, sturdier plants.

Harvesting: You can begin to harvest leaves as soon as your new plant becomes established. A full harvest should be completed just before the plants start to flower.

Culinary: Commonly used to garnish drinks, salads, soups, pasta, desserts, and teas. Best when used fresh and added in at the end of your cooking so you don’t overcook the leaves.

Nutrients: Basil is great for digestion, anti-inflammatory, mental health, promotes a healthy gut and so much more.

Companion planting: Plant near most garden crops, especially asparagus, beans, beets, cabbage, chili, bell peppers, eggplant, marigolds, oregano, potatoes, and tomatoes. Improves the flavor and growth of garden crops, especially tomatoes and lettuce, and can even be used to repel mosquitoes!

Container friendly

Please Note:

** Pots and plants may vary from the picture depending on the size and maturity ordered. All plants have been carefully hardened off and are ready to be transplanted into their permanent garden home or pot once delivered.

** Growing details provided are general. Conditions will change depending on your location, elevation, climate, rainfall, and accessible sunlight.