Cardinal Basil

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Description
Cardinal basil is a Thai type basil with flavors reminiscent of clove, cinnamon, and anise. This variety is a dual purpose basil with ornamental properties in addition to it's culinary uses. The flower bracts are a beautiful contrasting purple color to the green leaves. It makes a great potted plant on the patio, and can be used as a cut flower in a vase. It is a slower growing variety so it needs a long growing season before the wonderful flowers appear. 

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Life Cycle
​Annual 

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Soil Preference
Prefers well-draining soil with medium fertility and neutral pH (6.8 to 7.0)  Add lime to the soil if too acidic.​

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Sunlight Preference
Full sun

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Planting
Basil only grows well in warm weather and can be damaged by temperatures below 50 degrees.  Transplant out into the garden when temperatures have reached at least 70 degrees during the day and 50 degrees+ at night.

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Days to Maturity
80

Photo credit: Johnny's Seed