_O. basilicum_) and the Small Bush Basil (_O. minimum_). Of
the Common Sweet Basil, there are three varieties; and of the Bush
Basil, two varieties. They are all annuals, and are grown from seeds,
which are black, small, oblong, and retain their vitality from six to
ten years.

COMMON SWEET BASIL.

Large Sweet Basil. Ocymum basilicum.

Stem from a foot to a foot and a half in height; leaves comparatively
large, green, ovate, sharply pointed; flowers white, in whorls at the
extremities of the stems and branches. The whole plant, when bruised, is
highly aromatic; having the odor and flavor of cloves.

The seeds of the Common Sweet Basil, and also those of the two following
varieties, may be sown in a hot-bed in March, and the plants set out in
May in rows a foot apart, and five or six inches apart in the rows; or
the seeds may be sown in the open ground the last of April or early in
May, and the plants thinned while young, as directed for transplanting.
In removing the plants from the hot-bed, retain as much of the earth
about the roots as possible; water freely as soon as transplanted, and
also in dry weather; and they will soon yield an abundance of tender
stems and leaves.

_Varieties._--

PURPLE BASIL.

Basilic grand violet. _Vil._

Leaves and flowers purple. When grown in sunny situations, the
leaf-stems and young branches are also purple. In other respects, the
variety is similar to the Common Sweet Basil. Its properties and uses
are the same.

LETTUCE-LEAVED BASIL. _Vil._

The leaves of this variety are large, pale-green, wrinkled and blistered
like those of some kinds of Lettuce: whence the name. It resembles the
foregoing varieties in taste and odor, and is used for the same
purposes.

BUSH BASIL.

Ocymum minimum.

The Bush Basils are small, low-growing, branching plants; and are
propagated and cultivated like the Common Sweet Basil.

GREEN BUSH BASIL.

Basilic fin vert. _Vil._

Stem about eight inches high; leaves small, green, oval; flowers white,
produced in whorls about the upper portion of the principal stalk and
towards the extremities of the branches.

PURPLE BUSH BASIL.

Basilic fin violet. _Vil._

Leaves purple. In other respects, similar to the Green Bush Basil.

_Use._--The leaves and young branches have a strong, clove-like taste
and odor, and are used in highly seasoned soups and meats. They are also
sometimes added to salads. For winter use, the stalks are cu