~2 lbs Italian Basil aka "Large Leaf Italian Basil", "Sweet Basil", "Yi-Da-Li-Luo-Le", "Yi-Da-Li-Jiu-Ceng-Ta", "意大利罗勒", "意大利九层塔", "意大利羅勒", "意大利九層塔" Italian basil has solid, oblong leaves with a pointed tip and a glossy green appearance. Italian basil leaves range from half an inch to four inches in length. It has a spicy aroma and the taste is pungent but leans toward a sweet, clove-like back end. The leaves are used fresh to make pesto and can be dried and used as a seasoning. Italian basil is available year-round. Handling Tip Selection Italian basil has a uniform green color with no brown spots or bruises. The leaves are not wilted and not slimy. High leaf to stem ratio. Storage Italian basil should be stored at 50°F - 55°F (10°C - 13°C) with a relative humidity of more than ninety-five percent and no mist. The typical shelf life is one to two weeks. Italian basil is not sensitive to ethylene, a naturally occurring gas that regulates ripening. Italian basil produces a low level of ethylene. Italian basil is sensitive to chilling injury at storage below 48°F (9°C). Symptom includes leaves darkening.
