Rich Color and Exceptional Flavor

Amethyst Improved Basil is a striking Genovese-type herb that matures in about 60 days, offering a dramatic deep purple color that borders on black. This standout annual variety brings a bold aesthetic to the garden while delivering the classic sweet basil flavor enhanced by subtle notes of mint and clove. Developed as an improved form of traditional purple basil, Amethyst offers superior vigor, richer coloration, and dependable culinary performance.

Benefits

This basil variety excels in both culinary and ornamental applications. Its broad 2–3 inch leaves provide the familiar sweet, aromatic flavor perfect for Mediterranean dishes, fresh salads, infused oils, pestos, and garnishes. The plant’s near-black foliage creates an eye-catching contrast when used as a plate garnish or culinary accent. In the garden, its compact, bushy growth habit and vivid color make it ideal for borders, decorative herb plantings, and containers, all while attracting beneficial pollinators.

Growing Details

Amethyst Improved Basil grows 16–20 inches tall with a naturally branching, bushy habit. It performs best in full sun and moderately rich, moist soil that drains well. Once plants are established, regular harvesting encourages fuller growth and continual leaf production throughout the season. For peak flavor, a full harvest just before the plant begins to form flowers is recommended. Its ability to quickly regrow after cutting ensures a steady supply of fresh leaves.

Growing Success Tips

• Maintain consistent moisture for tender, flavorful leaves

• Pinch back growing tips to promote bushy, compact growth

• Harvest in the early morning for peak aroma and storage quality

• Protect plants from cold temperatures, as basil is frost-sensitive

Value Statement

Amethyst Improved Basil brings unmatched beauty and gourmet flavor to both garden and kitchen, making it an essential addition for herb lovers and culinary enthusiasts.
Bonus tip: Regularly remove flower buds to extend leaf production and maintain the plant’s rich flavor.

Product Features

• Genovese-type purple basil with intense dark foliage

• Matures in approximately 60 days

• Large leaves measuring 2–3 inches

• Bushy growth habit reaching 16–20 inches tall

• Ideal for culinary and ornamental use

Growing Information

• Light: Full sun

• Soil: Moderately rich, moist, well-drained soil

• Spacing: 4–8 inches

• Water: Consistent moisture; avoid prolonged dryness

Key Benefits

• Deep purple, almost black foliage for dramatic visual appeal

• Rich, aromatic basil flavor with subtle mint and clove notes

• Excellent for garden borders, containers, and edible landscapes

• Attracts beneficial insects and supports a thriving garden ecosystem