The information on this page applies to seedlings sold by LEAF Nursery during our 2021 Seedling Sale.
Ocimum basilicum. This is the strain of basil our favorite Italian seed grower produces for his local home market in the Bologna region. Aurelia offers classic sweet basil flavor with especially rich spicy undertones. Plants grow vigorously and branch early into heavy sprays of big shiny green leaves with a complex aromatic fragrance. Aurelia pairs beautifully with summer veggies, pasta, rice, chicken and pork dishes. Totally terrific with tomatoes and heavenly for pesto.[1]
Seed Type
| Organic | Heirloom | Non-GMO | Hybrid | Open-pollinated | Untreated |
Additional Information
| Container Friendly | Trellis Needed | Easy to Grow | Pollinator Friendly |
When to Plant Your Seedling
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
Growing Conditions
| Light | Temperature | Soil | Water |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full Sun to part shade | 55 F | Well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter | Keep soil evenly moist |
Planting Tips
| Plant Spacing | Plant Size | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|
| 8" | 12" | 80-90 says from seed |
- Additional instructions: For most tender leaves, harvest frequently to encourage new growth and to prevent flowers from developing. Pinch off any flowers that do develop. For seeds, allow flowers to develop. Many beneficial insects appreciate basil flowers, so consider allowing some plants to flower [2]
- Harvesting instructions: Harvest sprays of leaves by snipping stems just above two new sprouting lateral branches to encourage lush foliage. Keep flower buds pinched off to extend harvesting. Feed regularly with high nitrogen fertilizer after harvesting to promote new growth. Except in very short season areas, make a second planting three weeks after the first for a continued supply of fresh, aromatic leaves.[1]
Common Diseases and Pests
- Earwigs, centipedes, Bacterial leaf spot[2]
Useful Resources
- https://www.reneesgarden.com/products/basil-bolognese-aurelia (Seed Source)
- http://mgsantaclara.ucanr.edu/garden-help/herbs/basil/
If you bought this seedling and have any questions or feedback, let us know in the comment section below.