Thai Basil ‘Licorice’ is a flavorful and aromatic variety with glossy green leaves, purple stems, and a distinctive anise-like (licorice) taste. Essential in Southeast Asian cuisine, it’s also a beautiful ornamental plant and pollinator magnet.

Quick Facts

• Botanical name: Ocimum basilicum var. thyrsiflora

• Common name: Thai Basil, Licorice Basil

• Plant type: Warm-season annual herb

• Days to maturity: 60–70 days

• Height: 18–24 inches

• Sun exposure: Full sun

• Hardiness zones: USDA 4–11 (grown as annual)

• Spacing: 10–12 inches apart

When to Plant

• Indoors: Start seeds 6–8 weeks before the last expected frost.

• Outdoors: Transplant after soil warms and nighttime temperatures remain above 55°F (13°C).

• Germination time: 5–10 days at 70–85°F (21–29°C)

How to Plant

1. Soil preparation: Fertile, well-draining soil rich in compost. Ideal pH: 6.0–7.5.

2. Sowing depth: 1/4 inch deep; cover lightly with soil.

3. Watering: Keep soil moist during germination; water deeply but infrequently once established.

4. Fertilizing: Light feeding with balanced organic fertilizer every 3–4 weeks.

Growing Tips

• Pinch back growing tips regularly to encourage bushy growth.

• Remove flower spikes to prolong harvest and flavor quality.

• Great for containers, herb borders, and raised beds.

• Protect from cold snaps — basil is very frost-sensitive.

Harvesting

• Start harvesting once plants are 6–8 inches tall.

• Pick leaves regularly to encourage new growth.

• Use fresh or dry for later use.

• Best flavor is achieved before flowering.

Culinary Use

• Traditional in Thai, Vietnamese, and Laotian dishes.

• Excellent in curries, stir-fries, soups (like pho), salads, spring rolls, and herbal teas.

• Has a spicy, sweet, licorice-like flavor that holds up to cooking better than sweet basil.

Companion Plants

Grows well with peppers, tomatoes, oregano, and parsley.
Avoid planting near rue and sage.