Italian Large Leaf Basil
Ocimum basilicum 'Italian Large Leaf'
This stunning basil variety produces enormous, wrinkled leaves that can reach 4-5 inches across, making it a showstopper in any herb garden. The mild, sweet flavor is perfect for wrapping around mozzarella or making impressive caprese presentations. Its vigorous growth and dramatic appearance make it a favorite among both novice and experienced gardeners.
Harvest
60-75d
Days to harvest
Sun
Full sun
Zones
10–10
USDA hardiness
Height
0-3 feet
Planting Timeline
Showing dates for Italian Large Leaf Basil in USDA Zone 10
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Italian Large Leaf Basil · Zones 10–10
Growing Details
Zone-by-Zone Planting Calendar
| Zone | Indoor Start | Transplant | Direct Sow | Harvest |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Zone 10 | January – January | February – April | — | April – December |
Complete Growing Guide
Drainage: Good Drainage, Moist. Height: 0 ft. 4 in. - 3 ft. 0 in.. Spread: 0 ft. 4 in. - 1 ft. 2 in.. Spacing: 12 inches-3 feet. Growth rate: Rapid. Maintenance: Low. Propagation: Seed, Stem Cutting. Regions: Coastal, Mountains, Piedmont.
Harvesting
Bloom time: Summer
Edibility: Leaves and flowers in tea, as flavoring
Storage & Preservation
Store freshly harvested Italian Large Leaf Basil at room temperature for best flavor retention — refrigeration causes leaf blackening within 2-3 days. Place cut stems in water like fresh flowers and cover leaves loosely with plastic, changing water every 2 days. This method maintains quality for up to one week.
For preservation, blanch whole leaves in boiling water for 2-3 seconds, then immediately plunge into ice water. Pat dry and freeze in single layers between parchment paper — the large leaf size makes this method particularly effective for this variety.
Create basil oil by blending fresh leaves with olive oil and freezing in ice cube trays for convenient portion sizes. The high essential oil content of this variety makes it exceptional for drying — hang small bundles in a warm, well-ventilated area for 1-2 weeks, though expect some flavor loss compared to fresh or frozen preservation methods.
History & Origin
Origin: Tropical Africa and Asia
Advantages
- +Edible: Leaves and flowers in tea, as flavoring
- +Fast-growing
- +Low maintenance
Companion Plants
Plant Together
Tomatoes
Basil repels hornworms and aphids while potentially improving tomato flavor
Peppers
Basil deters aphids, spider mites, and thrips that commonly attack pepper plants
Oregano
Both herbs have similar growing requirements and can repel common garden pests together
Marigolds
Attract beneficial insects and repel nematodes and aphids that may harm basil
Lettuce
Basil provides light shade for lettuce and may improve its growth and flavor
Asparagus
Basil repels asparagus beetles while asparagus doesn't compete for nutrients
Parsley
Compatible growing conditions and basil may help deter pests from parsley
Carrots
Basil helps repel carrot flies and other root pests without competing for space
Keep Apart
Rue
Strongly allelopathic herb that can stunt basil growth and reduce essential oil production
Sage
Can inhibit basil growth due to different water needs and potential allelopathic effects
Thyme
May compete aggressively for nutrients and can inhibit basil's vigorous growth
Nutrition Facts
Per 100g serving. % Daily Value based on 2,000 calorie diet. Source: USDA FoodData Central (FDC #172232)
Pests & Disease Resistance
Resistance
Susceptible to fusarium wilt and bacterial leaf spot in humid conditions
Common Pests
Aphids, spider mites, Japanese beetles, slugs
Diseases
Fusarium wilt, bacterial leaf spot, downy mildew