Type
classic sweet basil
Basil variety
Sweet Basil Basil
Often sold under this simple name, Sweet Basil is the familiar all-purpose green basil for summer gardens. It grows quickly and adapts well to beds and containers.
Days to maturity
60-75
Best for
general fresh use
About Sweet Basil
Sweet Basil is the common large-leaf basil used fresh and cooked, with a sweet spicy aroma and soft green leaves. It is less specifically defined than Genovese, but it is generally vigorous and versatile in the kitchen garden.
Growing Sweet Basil Basil
Plant after nights are reliably warm, because basil resents cold soil and cool winds. Remove flower spikes promptly and harvest regularly to keep leaf production high.
Full growing guide
For planting dates, care, and harvest that apply to all basil, see the complete guide.
How to grow BasilOther basil varieties
Variety characteristics are general guidance for US home gardens; performance varies by climate, soil, and season. Seed and plant availability differs by supplier. Page updated Aug 5, 2026.