Sold Out For 2026 - Basil: Red Rubin is a very similar variety. Name: Basil: Dark Opal Latin Name: Ocimum basilicum purpureum Description: Dark Opal Basil, or Red Basil as it can also be called has beautiful reddish-purple leaves. It also has a stronger flavor than sweet basil. Dark Opal Basil seeds can also be planted and grown all year round inside on your window sill. Seed Origin: Netherlands Sowing: March to August Harvesting: May to October How To Grow Dark Opal Basil From Seed: Using seedling modules or small pots, sow a pinch of Dark Opal Basil seeds in each pot and lightly cover with compost. When the seedlings develop their first set of true leaves, transplant them into bigger pots or to their place in the garden, once the risk of frost has passed. Harvest leaves as required, but make sure to pick above the bottom two true leaves, so the plant can re-grow. Don’t be shy about harvesting Basil, as this will help it to grow more vigorously. Dark Opal Basil does not do well in the cold, it will likely start to die off after the first frost of Autumn/Winter when grown outside. It will do best grown in a greenhouse/cold frame. Basil seeds can also be planted and grown all year round inside on your window sill.
