Sweet Thai Basil (Ocimum basilicum 'Horapha') is the authentic variety essential for traditional Thai and Vietnamese cuisine. This distinctive herb features green, 2-inch leaves with a unique spicy, anise-clove flavor that's sweeter and more complex than Italian basil. With attractive purple stems and beautiful purple flower spikes, Sweet Thai Basil adds both culinary excellence and ornamental appeal to herb gardens. Known as 'Horapha' in Thailand and 'Húng Quế' in Vietnam, this is the true basil for authentic Southeast Asian cooking.
Key Features
Spicy anise-clove flavor – Unique sweet, licorice-like taste essential for authentic Thai and Vietnamese dishes
Attractive purple stems – Distinctive purple-tinged stems add ornamental interest to the garden
Beautiful purple blooms – Showy flower spikes attract pollinators and can be used in cooking
Authentic Thai variety – The true 'Horapha' basil used in traditional Southeast Asian cuisine
Heat-loving annual – Thrives in warm weather and produces abundantly all summer
Versatile culinary uses – Essential for Thai curries, pho, stir-fries, and spring rolls
Culinary & Growing Tips
Sweet Thai Basil is essential for authentic Thai curries, pad Thai, Vietnamese pho, spring rolls, and stir-fries. The spicy anise-clove flavor holds up beautifully to cooking and complements coconut milk, fish sauce, and chili peppers. Use fresh leaves as a garnish or add during cooking—the flavor intensifies with heat. The purple flowers are also edible and make beautiful garnishes. Plant in full sun with well-drained, fertile soil. Pinch back growing tips regularly to encourage bushy growth and delay flowering. Water consistently and fertilize regularly for maximum production.
Mature Size: 18-24" H × 12-15" W Hardiness: Annual (all zones) Light: Full sun Water: Moderate to high (keep soil consistently moist)
Pricing & Availability All items are subject to availability. You may contact us via email - mulchpit1@gmail.com or call us at 615-754-7076 to check our current availability. We strive to keep our website prices accurate, but prices are subject to change.
