Hairy Basil Plant Care

Hairy Basil (Basilicum polystachyon) belongs to the Lamiaceae family within the Basilicum genus. Hairy Basil is native to Africa, Madagascar, southern Asia, New Guinea, Australia, and various islands of the Pacific and Indian Oceans. Hairy Basil is also known as American Blue.

Hairy Basil displays a compact, bushy herb growth habit, reaching up to 0.5 ft tall with a spread of approximately 0.5 ft. Hairy Basil produces small white or purple flowers in spikes.

Leaf size: approximately 2 inches.

Basilicum polystachyon requires watering every 3–5 days. Allow the top layer of soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency during winter when growth slows.

Hairy Basil thrives in full sun.

Basilicum polystachyon grows best at temperatures of 50–85°F. Hairy Basil prefers humidity levels of 40–70%.

Well-draining, fertile soil with added compost for nutrients. Good drainage is essential for Hairy Basil to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.

Feed Hairy Basil every 3 months during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced fertilizer diluted to the strength on the label.

Pause feeding in autumn and winter, when growth slows, and never fertilize dry soil — water first.

The PlantoScan app can remind you when to water and when to fertilize each plant.

Repot annually in spring. Choose a pot one size larger than the current container, and ensure it has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.

Hairy Basil can be propagated through seeds, stem cuttings.

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Hairy Basil is susceptible to aphids, whiteflies, spider mites. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.

Yellow leaves, brown tips or drooping? See common plant problems and how to fix them.

Hairy Basil grows outdoors in USDA Zone 12a. It survives winters down to planting zone 12a. Hairy Basil is native to Africa, Madagascar, southern Asia, New Guinea, Australia, and various islands of the Pacific and Indian Oceans. In cooler regions, grow Hairy Basil as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.