Purple basil

Basilic pourpre

What it is

More clove and anise than green basil, and considerably tougher-leaved. Its anthocyanins bleed pink into vinegar within minutes, which is why it is grown as much for infusing as for the leaf itself.

In the kitchen

It does not make good pesto — the colour turns muddy brown. Use it whole in salads or steep it in vinegar.

Goes with

Tomato White wine vinegar Olive oil Peach Mozzarella Garlic Strawberry Lemon

Same species

Basil Basil seed Holy basil Thai basil

In season alongside

Marjoram Spignel Angelica Anise hyssop Clary sage Curry plant

Something wrong here, or missing? Tell us