Basil
Family Labiatae (= Lamiaceae)
Ocimum basilicum, basil (O. basilicum 1), is a bushy aromatic annual herb with opposite entire, simple and aromatic leaves, and white flowers borne in axillary whorls.
Distribution and use
Basil is native in the Old World tropics, but can grow in temperate regions. The aromatic leaves (O. basilicum 2) are used as a condiment. The plant yields basil oil, which is used for scenting soap and perfumes, in confectionery and in liqueurs, e.g. Chartreuse.