Basil 'Cardinal'
While ‘Cardinal’ basil has a lovely deep anise flavor, it is best known for its showy flower spikes. Most of the time we, as gardeners, are sweating to keep basil blooms pruned to keep leaf growth going. Yet, with this cultivar, it’s all about the flower! Plant for ornamental value in your garden or on your front porch for an edimental flare. Read more about basil below!
Height: 24-30”
Spread: 12-18”
A Note from the Grower
The quintessential fresh herb to have on hand—basil can be used for culinary or ornamental use in the garden. Container or in-ground planting works for this classic. Like it’s relative, mint, basil is best enjoyed fresh but can be dried. I enjoy keeping a vase of cut stems in the kitchen or a potted plant in the windowsill for easy access.
Choose a handful of varieties from my selection to have beautiful caprese salads and vinaigrettes, or select ‘Try Basil’ to get a mix of the best basil flavors, textures and colors all in one! This season, I kept all of my favorite varieties from last year, but I also added some new ones including a lemon flavored basil, a large-leaf basil and a plum-colored flowering basil for more ornamental enjoyment. Enjoy them all! Read up on basil care in the Plant Guide.
