50 Basil Dark Opal

The purple foliage and pink flowers of this herb make it a useful ornamental for flower gardens. The dark purple color makes this a useful accent plant in borders, vegetable gardens and pots. May also be used for cooking in soups and stews.

For all year use, dry the leaves and store in a tightly sealed container.

Gather leaves just before the flower buds begin to open and before the heat of day begins to decrease the fragrant oil in the leaves. Dry in a shaded, warm place. Turn leaves daily. When dry, crumble leaves and remove stems.