description Wild Basil Overview
Wild basil is a common name for Clinopodium vulgare, an aromatic perennial herb in the mint family, Lamiaceae. It is native across much of Europe and parts of Asia and grows in dry grassland, open woodland, and woodland margins. The plant produces upright stems with clusters of pink to purple flowers; despite its common name, it is not the same species as culinary basil, Ocimum basilicum.
help Wild Basil FAQ
What species is commonly called Wild Basil in this catalog?
This entry refers to Clinopodium vulgare, an aromatic perennial herb in the mint family, Lamiaceae. It is not the culinary basil genus Ocimum.
Where does Clinopodium vulgare grow naturally?
Wild basil is native across much of Europe and parts of Asia. It commonly grows in dry grassland, open woodland, and woodland margins.
Does Wild Basil have the same growth habit as sweet basil?
No. Clinopodium vulgare is an upright perennial with clusters of flowers, while sweet basil is usually grown as a tender annual herb. The shared common name can therefore be misleading.
What family does Wild Basil belong to?
It belongs to Lamiaceae, the mint family. Aromatic foliage and clustered flowers are typical clues that connect it with other mint-family plants.
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