Wild Basil
Clinopodium vulgare
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Description
Wild Basil (Clinopodium vulgare) is a perennial herbaceous plant native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa. It belongs to the mint family, Lamiaceae, and is recognized by its square stems, opposite leaves, and small, tubular, pink to purple flowers that bloom from mid-summer to early autumn. In agroecology and regenerative agriculture, Wild Basil serves as an excellent ground cover or understory plant in food forests, contributing to biodiversity and ecosystem resilience. It attracts pollinators, particularly bees, and provides habitat for beneficial insects. Historically, it has been used in traditional medicine across its native range. In guild design, it pairs well with plants like yarrow and chamomile, which enhance its pest-repelling properties. Its aromatic leaves can deter certain pests, making it a valuable component of natural pest management strategies.
Growing Details
Wild Basil prefers full sun to partial shade and thrives in well-drained, moderately fertile soils. Before planting, enrich the soil with organic compost to enhance fertility. Mulching with straw or wood chips helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants such as marigold and garlic can help deter pests. Common beginner mistakes include overwatering and planting in poorly drained soils. Harvest leaves just before flowering for the best flavor. After harvest, leaves can be dried in a
Edible Parts
Leaves
Flowers
Tags
Carbon Farming
Attracts Wildlife
Scented Plant
Bee Friendly
Meadow
Visual Appeal
Easy Propagating
Tea
Range (Based on GBIF Data)
The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Clinopodium vulgare</strong> recorded in scientific biodiversity databases.
Source: <a href="https://www.gbif.org" target="_blank">GBIF.org</a> โ Global Biodiversity Information Facility
Location & Timing
native geo location: Native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa
applicable geo region: Temperate regions
language used: en
Flowering:
beginning
of July for 60 days
Harvest:
beginning
of September for 30 days
Seed Start:
beginning
of April
Indoor Start:
Transplant:
Uses & Benefits
Edible Rating:
(3/5)
edible uses: The leaves of Wild Basil can be used as a flavoring herb, similar to culinary basil, though they have a milder taste. They are best harvested just before flowering for optimal flavor and can be added fresh to salads, soups, and stews or dried for herbal teas. The flowers are also edible and can be used as a garnish.
Medicinal Rating:
(3/5)
medicinal uses: Traditionally, Wild Basil has been used for its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. Infusions made from the leaves are used to alleviate symptoms of colds and flu, and to treat respiratory issues, digestive disorders, and skin conditions. It is important to use it in moderation, as excessive consumption may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort.
health concerns: Excessive consumption may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort.
other uses: Wild Basil can be used as a natural mulch to improve soil fertility and moisture retention. Its aromatic properties also make it suitable for use in potpourri and natural insect repellents.
Scientific Literature
Loading scientific articles about <strong>Clinopodium vulgare</strong>...
Botanical data
specie: Clinopodium vulgare
common names: Wild Basil; Field Basil; Basil Thyme
family: Lamiaceae
sub family:
tribe:
sub tribe:
genus: Clinopodium
Growing Conditions
area needed: 0.1 m
spacing: 0.3 m
growing difficulty: Low
Deciduous / Evergreen: Evergreen
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 20ยฐC / 15ยฐC / 25ยฐC
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 0ยฐC / 0ยฐC / 0ยฐC
water demands: Medium
humidity:
light demands: High
root type: Medium
frost tender: Low
hardness:
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(5/10)
first harvest: 1 years
life span: 0 years
succession: Mid
growth rate: Medium
max height: 0.6 m
max width: 0.3 m
soil preference:
Medium (Loam)
pH preference:
Neutral
flower type:
Hermaphrodite
growth details: Wild Basil prefers full sun to partial shade and thrives in well-drained, moderately fertile soils. Before planting, enrich the soil with organic compost to enhance fertility. Mulching with straw or wood chips helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants such as marigold and garlic can help deter pests. Common beginner mistakes include overwatering and planting in poorly drained soils. Harvest leaves just before flowering for the best flavor. After harvest, leaves can be dried in a
Potential Disturbances: Wild Basil is generally resistant to most pests and diseases. However, it can occasionally be affected by aphids and powdery mildew. Introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings to control aphid populations. Use neem oil or a garlic spray to manage powdery mildew. Planting garlic or chives nearby can also help deter aphids.
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