60 Days to maturity. Ocimum basilicum. Organic Purple Dark Opal Seeds. Non-GMO, annual, open-pollinated, heirloom. Suitable for growing in fields, containers, garden plots, raised beds, and greenhouses. Purple Dark Opal basil is a striking variety known for its uniquely dark, almost black-purple foliage. This deep coloration makes Purple Dark Opal a visually stunning addition to gardens and floral arrangements. The plant typically grows 16 to 24 inches tall with a compact, bushy habit suited for borders or containers. Slow to bolt. The dark purple leaves have a metallic green undertone or sheen in bright light and are flat and open compared to many other varieties. Basil can also be grown for delicious microgreens. ~19,000 seeds/oz. Download Free Herb Growing Guide PDF Read Full Basil Herb Growing Guide Instructions Latin Name: Ocimum basilicum Hardiness Zone: Annual in zones 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 Days to Maturity: 60-90 Days to Germination: 5-10 Seeding Depth: 0.25 inch Direct Sow: Yes Start Indoors: Yes, 6-8 weeks before transplanting. Plant Spacing: 9-12 inches Row Spacing: 12-18 inches Plant Height: 12-24 inches Plant Width: 9-12 inches Growth Habit: Upright branching Deer Resistant: No Soil Preference: Consistently moist, fertile, well-drained Temperature Preference: 65-80 F Germination Temperature: 68-70 F Light Preference: Full Sun Pests and Diseases: Susceptible to rot and mildew in overly saturated, heavy, and poorly drained soil. Basil does not have too many pests or insects and is generally seeded in the garden to help minimize pests. Organic Purple Dark Opal Color: Dark purple leaves with tiny pink flowers on spikes. Organic Purple Dark Opal Flavor: Mild, earthy, notes of anise Garden Size: Greenhouse, Garden Plot, Raised Bed, Container, Fields Climate Tolerance: Heat tolerant with adequate moisture. Growing Organic Purple Dark Opal in the Herb Garden Basil is a warm-weather crop grown both indoors and out. For earliest starts, begin indoors 6-8 weeks prior to final frost. Plant 4-6 seeds .25 inches deep per cell or 3-4 inches apart in the garden in moderately moist, well-drained soil in full sun. Germinates in 5-10 days, thinning back to 1-2 plants per pot or every 9-12 inches in the garden as true leaves establish. Harden off seedlings if transplanting outside. Harvesting of Organic Purple Dark Opal The best time to harvest the leaves is in the morning. Harvest/prune the plants before they set flowers to encourage the plant to produce fresh leaves throughout the season. To prune the plant, remove the top several sets of leaves on each stem, taking care to leave at least three sets of leaves on the lower part. A shot of liquid nitrogen fertilizer, at pruning time, will help the plants recover. Eat basil often and dry or freeze leaves throughout the summer. Make your final harvest before the weather drops below 40 F, as the plant will not survive the cold. About Organic Purple Dark Opal Garden Seeds Dark Opal favor is favored in Italian and Southeast Asian cuisines for its unique profile that can enhance both fresh dishes and cooked meals. The aromatic foliage is not only flavorful but also rich in antioxidants, thanks to the high anthocyanin content responsible for the dark purple hue. Dark Opal basil also plays a role in attracting beneficial pollinators such as bees and butterflies during its blooming period. It produces bright cerise flower spikes that add additional color and interest to garden spaces. The plant is generally low-maintenance, tolerates brief dry spells once established, and is less appealing to deer and rabbits, making it a good choice for diverse garden environments. Tips From Our Gardeners "Experiment with infusing basil into oils or vinegar to create flavorful condiments for salads and dishes." - Jerry Sawyer, True Leaf Market Writer Organic Purple Dark Opal Seeds Per Package: 2 g packet - Approximately 1,250 Seeds .25 oz - Approximately 4,750 Seeds 1 oz - Approximately 19,000 Seeds 4 oz - Approximately 76,800 Seeds 1 lb - Approximately 304,000 Seeds 5 lb - Approximately 1,520,000 Seeds 25 lb - Approximately 7,600,000 Seeds Non-GMO Organic Purple Dark Opal seeds are available for Fast Free Shipping on qualifying orders.