Purple basil

Purple basil.

* Common name: Purple basil

* Botanical name: Ocimum basilicum purpurea

* What it is: An annual, upright, tender, leafy herb with rich burgundy/purple leaves.

* Size: 18 to 24 inches tall, 15 to 18 inches wide

* Where to use: Herb or vegetable gardens, but the dark leaves of this basil are attractive enough to use as an ornamental plant in flower gardens or containers. Full sun.

* Care: Wait until all danger of frost passes to plant (mid to late May). Plant in well-drained, compost-enriched soil and fertilize at planting with Plant-tone. Snip stems to eat fresh as needed throughout summer. Will die at frost so make your pesto before then!

* Great partner: Looks good with (and eats even better with) fresh garden tomatoes. Marigolds are a good flower partner.