Basil Chinese Sweet leaves on a white background.
A bouquet of Chinese Sweet Basil wrapped in a paper bag with a bowl of leaves.
A trio of Chinese Sweet Basil leaves on a white background.
A gardener holding a freshly picked posy of Chinese Sweet Basil in the garden at Baker Creek.
Chinese Sweet Basil growing in the restaurant garden at Baker Creek Heirloom Seed Co.
Basil Chinese Sweet leaves on a white background.
A bouquet of Chinese Sweet Basil wrapped in a paper bag with a bowl of leaves.
A trio of Chinese Sweet Basil leaves on a white background.
A gardener holding a freshly picked posy of Chinese Sweet Basil in the garden at Baker Creek.
Chinese Sweet Basil growing in the restaurant garden at Baker Creek Heirloom Seed Co.

Basil Seeds,
Chinese Sweet

4.88 Reviews#HB298 · 100 seeds
Price
Regular price $3.50
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Description

(Ocimum basilicum). A flavorful, citrusy variety that is perhaps the most tender and aromatic basil we’ve tried! This fast growing, heat-tolerant basil provides lemony orange-flavored foliage all summer long. The leaves are smooth, and even the stem is tender enough for raw eating in salad. A popular Chinese variety perfect for Asian dishes and fusion cooking! This delicious herb is hard to find in America.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Ocimum basilicum
Life Cycle
Annual
Sun Requirement
Full sun
Days to Germinate
6–10
Days to Maturity
60–75
Planting Depth
¼ in.
Plant Spacing
8–12 in.
Ideal Temperature
70–85°F
Frost Hardy
No

Growing Guide

When to Grow

Start seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost date in your region. Transplant seedlings outdoors only when the danger of frost has passed, as basil is very sensitive to cold. In warm climates, seeds can also be sown directly in the garden once the soil has warmed. Check your area's frost-free dates to schedule planting. Learn about your area's hardiness zones and first/last frost dates in our blog post 'Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources.'

How to Sow and Plant

Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep in seed trays or directly in prepared garden soil after the risk of frost has passed. Keep the soil at a temperature of 70 to 85°F during germination. Space plants about 8 to 12 inches apart to ensure proper airflow and prevent overcrowding. If starting seeds indoors, harden off the seedlings gradually over 7 to 10 days before transplanting them to outdoor beds or containers.

How to Grow

Water Chinese Sweet basil consistently to keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy. For healthy growth, fertilize with a balanced fertilizer or enrich the soil with compost every 2 to 3 weeks. Pinch back the tops of the plants regularly to encourage a bushy habit and delay flowering. In addition to its culinary use, this basil variety is highly attractive to pollinators, making it an excellent companion plant for vegetables like tomatoes and peppers.

How to Save Seeds

  • Flower heads mature progressively from the bottom of the stem to the top.
  • When the bottom seed head starts to turn brown, the stem can be cut and allowed to dry away from direct sun in a well-ventilated area.
  • Rub dried raceme over a fine wire mesh and winnow off the chaff.
  • Place chaff in a bowl and carefully swirl contents around. Seeds will gather at the bottom of the bowl.
  • Tip the bowl so that the chaff can be discarded and blow the rest out carefully.

FAQ

How tall does Chinese Sweet basil grow?

This basil variety typically grows 18 to 24 inches tall, making it suitable for both small garden spaces and container gardening.

How long does Chinese Sweet basil take to mature?

Chinese Sweet basil matures in approximately 60 to 75 days, but you can start harvesting leaves as early as 3 to 4 weeks after germination.

How do I use Chinese Sweet basil in the kitchen?

Chinese Sweet basil is widely used in Asian cooking for soups, stir-fries, and salads. Its mild sweetness and herbal aroma also make it perfect for teas and fresh garnishes.

Browse our full range of basil seeds.

Customer reviews

4.8 / 5 8 Reviews

What gardeners are saying

  • Sweet citrus scent: Smells like sweet lemon, nothing like Italian basil.

  • Thrives in heat: Grows strongly through hot, humid summers.

  • Easy to start: Germinates well and grows big with little care.

  • Try it in tea: Gardeners lean toward drying it for tea rather than cooking.

  • Heads up: The flavor is tingly and citrusy; not a classic cooking basil.

More to grow!

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