Wild Basil | Clinopodium vulgare

Description

Botanical Information: Wild Basil

Belonging to the mint family, Lamiaceae, wild basil has the stereotypical square stems. It is a perennial rhizomatous herb, allowing it to spread and create large mats. Its inflorescence bears pinkish-purple flowers in the summertime. It can grow 0.5-1 metres in height and has a spread of 0.1-0.5 metres.

Habitat

Wild basil’s habitat is in scrub, banks, waste ground, heathland and dry grassland, typically areas with limestone or chalky soils. It prefers full sun with well-drained soil.

Benefits to Wildlife

This colourful plant is a fan favourite of bees, butterflies and hoverflies. The larva of the Agromyzid fly Phytomyza petoei, mines the leaves of various species of plants within the mint family, wild basil included. Look out for squiggly lines on the leaves! Remember – just because an insect is using it, doesn’t mean it’s a pest. It’s just biodiversity!!

Conservation Status in the UK

Wild basil is occasional but widespread throughout the UK, but it appears to be declining. This is due to habitat loss, invasive species and lack of bare ground for germination.

Ease of Growing

Plant your very own patch of wild basil in a spot with full sun and well-drained soil. Give it a good water when you first plant it, and once it is established, it will be fairly self-sufficient. It is recommended to water it during prolonged dry spells to avoid wilting.