Samuel

Basil is a favorite for many so here we are sharing some of our favorite ways of using it. Welcome to this post about how to make lemon basil tea. One of my favorite things to do with leftover basil is when I have maybe had a big harvest. Something that seems to be more common each year as I learn more and more about gardening. Lemon basil tea really is a treat for you and a great way to never throw something away. If you maybe don’t grow lemon basil tea at home but want to learn how to make basil tea anyway, then we have just the post for you.

How To Make Lemon Basil Tea

So how can you make the best lemon basil tea then? The key for me making this is having really healthy and fresh leaves to choose from. It’s such a big factor that it can really make or break a good tea. Even though normally with tea you would use dried herbs from probably a long time ago. Using herbs like basil or even stuff like lemon balm or lemon verbena freshness trumps everything.I actually put my basil plant in the sun for a little bit to further have some sunlight on it and live it up a bit. I have not concluded anything on this but the teas I make on a sunny day when my plant has been outside seem to make the best ones. I typically only use the leaves since I like to pluck the flowers early to make my plant continue growing for the season and not slow down. But making basil tea from the flowers is also very tasty. It will of course be a little bit more floral and sweeter too.

Lemon Basil Tea Benefits

Lemon basil tea is a flavorful and refreshing drink that offers numerous health benefits. Here are some of the potential benefits of drinking lemon basil tea:

1. Antioxidant properties: Lemon basil tea is rich in antioxidants that help protect the body from damage caused by free radicals, which can contribute to chronic diseases.
2. Digestive health: Lemon basil tea may help improve digestion and relieve digestive issues such as bloating, gas, and constipation.
3. Anti-inflammatory effects: The essential oils in lemon basil have anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce inflammation and pain throughout the body.
4. Stress relief: Lemon basil tea has a calming effect that may help reduce stress and anxiety levels.
5. Respiratory health: Lemon basil tea is believed to have respiratory benefits and may help relieve congestion, cough, and other respiratory symptoms.
6. Immune system support: Lemon basil tea contains vitamin C, which supports a healthy immune system and helps the body fight off infections.

Overall, lemon basil tea is a tasty and healthy way to boost your overall wellness and support your body’s natural functions.

How Is Basil Tea Prepared

I don’t really use a measurement for the tea. I always go by feeling. So the first thing I do is boil my water. Then I pluck some lemon basil leaves and let them steep in the water for about a minute or two. Any less won’t get the flavor out, and any more will dull the flavor. It’s a balancing act.

Even though I say I don’t use the measurement for the tea, I usually use about 6 – 7 leaves at least, rather large ones too for about 200 grams of water. Which would equal 2 dl or almost 0,9 cups. It’s what has worked the best for me I have found.Making your own tea at home with herbs you have grown yourself really is the everyday luxury that can be needed sometimes. I hope you have felt a little bit inspired reading this and feel more informed now about making lemon basil tea.

Lemon Basil Iced Tea

Lemon basil iced tea is a refreshing and flavorful beverage that can be enjoyed on hot summer days. Here is a simple recipe for making lemon basil iced tea:

Ingredients:

• 4-5 cups water
• 4-5 lemon basil leaves
• 4-5 regular tea bags
• 1/2 cup sugar (or to taste)
• 1 lemon, sliced
• Ice cubes

Instructions:

1. Boil the water in a pot on the stove.
2. Remove the pot from heat and add the lemon basil leaves and tea bags.
3. Let the tea steep for about 5 minutes.
4. Remove the tea bags and strain out the lemon basil leaves.
5. Add sugar to the tea and stir until dissolved.
6. Chill the tea in the refrigerator.
7. Serve the iced tea over ice cubes and garnish with lemon slices.

Lemon basil adds a unique twist to the traditional iced tea recipe, and its citrusy flavor pairs well with the lemon slices. The sugar can be adjusted to taste, and honey or other sweeteners can be used instead. This lemon basil iced tea is perfect for outdoor gatherings or as a refreshing afternoon pick-me-up.

Lemon Ginger Basil Tea

Lemon ginger basil tea is a flavorful and aromatic tea that can be enjoyed hot or cold. Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups water
• 1-2 lemon slices
• 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and sliced
• 1-2 sprigs of fresh basil
• Honey or sugar (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a small saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil.
2. Add 1-2 slices of lemon and the sliced ginger to the boiling water.
3. Reduce the heat and let the mixture simmer for 5-10 minutes.
4. Add 1-2 sprigs of fresh basil to the tea and simmer for another 2-3 minutes.
5. Remove the tea from the heat and strain it through a fine mesh strainer.
6. If desired, add honey or sugar to taste.
7. Serve the tea hot or chill it in the fridge to make a refreshing iced tea.

Lemon ginger basil tea is a great way to enjoy the health benefits of ginger, lemon, and basil. It’s also a delicious and unique twist on traditional lemon tea. Enjoy it as a soothing warm beverage or as a refreshing iced tea on a hot day.

Basil Health Benefits

Basil offers a plethora of health benefits. Packed with antioxidants, it shields the body from free radical damage. Its anti-inflammatory traits combat inflammation, bolstering overall well-being. With antibacterial and antifungal properties, basil wards off infections. Rich in essential nutrients like vitamins K, A, and C, calcium, and iron, it supports overall health. Research indicates basil’s potential in stress reduction, digestion improvement, and even cancer prevention. Moreover, its aroma uplifts mood, easing anxiety and inducing relaxation. Incorporating basil into your diet can contribute to a healthier, happier you.

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Basil is a versatile herb that can be used in many recipes and is easy to grow, making it a favorite among gardeners. If you love using basil in your cooking, you may want to multiply your plants to ensure a continuous supply. There are a few methods you can use to multiply basil, including stem cuttings, water propagation, and seed germination.

How Do You Multiply Basil?

1. Stem cuttings: To propagate basil using stem cuttings, take a cutting from the plant that is about 4-6 inches long, just below a node. Remove the lower leaves and place the cutting in a container filled with water. Change the water every few days and keep the container in a bright, warm location. In about 2-3 weeks, roots should start to grow, and once they are about an inch long, the cutting can be transplanted into soil.
2. Seed germination: You can also multiply basil by growing it from seed. Start by filling a container with soil and pressing the seeds into the soil. Cover with a thin layer of soil and water gently. Keep the container in a warm, sunny location and water regularly. In about 5-7 days, the seeds should start to sprout, and once they have grown their first true leaves, they can be transplanted into larger containers or directly into the ground.
3. Water propagation: Another way to multiply basil is by using water propagation. Take a cutting as described in the stem cutting method and place it in a container filled with water. Change the water every few days and keep the container in a bright, warm location. Once roots have grown, the cutting can be transplanted into soil.

How To Make More Basil Plants?

One way to make more basil plants is by taking stem cuttings. Choose healthy stems that are about 4-6 inches long and cut them from the parent plant with a sharp and sterile pair of scissors or garden knife. Cut the stems just below a node where a leaf attaches to the stem. Remove the leaves from the lower half of the stem, leaving only a few leaves on the upper part. Dip the cut end of the stem into rooting hormone powder or liquid to encourage root growth. Then, plant the stem into a pot filled with moist potting soil or into a jar filled with water.

If planting in soil, keep the soil consistently moist and place the pot in a bright, warm spot with indirect sunlight. If planting in water, change the water frequently and place the jar in a bright, warm spot with indirect sunlight. Within a few weeks, the stem will start growing roots and once they are well established, it will start growing new leaves. You can transplant the new basil plant to a larger container or into your garden bed once it has developed a good root system and several sets of leaves.

Does Basil Multiply On Its Own?

Basil is an annual herb, which means it completes its life cycle within a year. As such, basil does not multiply on its own like some perennials or shrubs. Once the basil plant has completed its growth cycle, it will produce seeds, which can be used to grow new plants. However, there are some ways to encourage the basil to continue growing throughout the season, which can give the appearance of multiplying. One way is to pinch back the basil leaves and stems regularly, which can stimulate new growth and bushier plants. This process is known as pruning and can help keep the plant healthy and productive.

While basil may not multiply on its own, it can be propagated by taking stem cuttings and rooting them in water or soil. This method can be used to create new plants from an existing basil plant, effectively multiplying the number of plants you have. However, it’s important to note that propagating basil through stem cuttings can take some time, and not all cuttings will successfully root.

Growing Basil In Water

Basil is a versatile herb that can be grown in many ways, including in water. Growing basil in water is a great option if you don’t have access to outdoor space or want to enjoy fresh basil all year round. Here are some tips on how to grow basil in water:

1. Choose a healthy basil stem: Select a stem that is at least 4 inches long and has several leaves.
2. Cut the stem: Cut the stem just below a node, which is where the leaves meet the stem.
3. Remove the lower leaves: Remove the leaves from the bottom of the stem, leaving only two or three at the top.
4. Place the stem in water: Fill a glass or jar with fresh water and place the stem in the water, making sure the bottom of the stem is submerged.
5. Change the water regularly: Change the water every few days to keep it fresh and prevent the growth of bacteria.
6. Place the jar in a sunny location: Basil thrives in warm, sunny locations, so place the jar in a spot that gets plenty of sunlight.
7. Wait for roots to grow: After a few days, you should see roots starting to grow from the bottom of the stem.
8. Transplant the basil: Once the roots are at least an inch long, you can transplant the basil into soil or continue to grow it in water.

Growing basil in water is a simple and easy way to enjoy fresh basil all year round. It also makes a great indoor gardening project for kids and adults alike.

How Do You Get A Continuous Supply Of Basil?

To get a continuous supply of basil, it is recommended to regularly harvest the plant to encourage new growth and prevent it from going to seed. You can also propagate the plant using stem cuttings, water propagation, or seed germination to create new plants. With proper care and attention, you can have a continuous supply of fresh basil throughout the growing season.

Using Up Your Basil Plant

Dry Basil Leaves In The Oven

To dry basil leaves, harvest the leaves when the plant is mature, rinse them under cold water, and pat them dry. Spread the leaves out on a baking sheet and place them in a warm, dry location until they are completely dry and crispy. Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry location.

How To Harvest Basil Seeds

Basil seeds can be purchased at garden centers or online, or you can save seeds from an existing plant. To save seeds, wait until the plant has flowered and the flowers have turned brown. Harvest the flowers and let them dry in a warm, dry location. Once the flowers are completely dry, gently crush them to release the seeds and store them in a cool, dry location.

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Basil, with its aromatic leaves and diverse flavors ranging from sweet to peppery, thrives in warm, sunny conditions. It’s a staple in many cuisines, adding freshness to salads, pastas, and sauces, while its medicinal properties make it a favorite in herbal remedies. Propagation of basil is easy and rewarding. Begin by selecting healthy stems from an established basil plant. Remove lower leaves and place the stems in a glass of water, ensuring at least one node is submerged. Roots will develop within a week or two. Once roots are established, transplant the cuttings into well-draining soil.

How To Propagate Basil

To propagate basil, take a 4-inch cutting just below a leaf node and remove the lower leaves. Place the cutting in a glass of water on a sunny windowsill, changing the water every few days. Once roots emerge (typically in 2-4 weeks), transplant the cutting into a pot with direct sunlight. Sharing propagated basil plants with friends spreads the joy of fresh herbs.

How To Select The Best Basil Stems For Propagating

Begin with strong parent plants for successful propagation. Select vibrant green basil stems free from diseases or pests. Avoid flowering stems, as they may not root effectively. Healthy parent plants ensure robust cuttings, setting the stage for successful propagation and a thriving basil garden.

Where To Cut Basil For Propagation

The selection of the cutting location is crucial in basil propagation. Utilize sharp, sterilized scissors or pruning shears to make a precise cut just below a node, as these areas are rich in cells that promote root development. Aim for a cutting length of 4 to 6 inches for optimal success in establishing new basil plants.

Preparing Basil Cuttings

After taking a cutting, proper preparation is essential for successful propagation. Carefully remove the leaves from the lower half of the cutting, ensuring to leave several leaves at the top intact. This helps minimize moisture loss and encourages the plant to focus its energy on root development at the node points, fostering healthy growth.

Transplanting Basil Into Pots

From Water to Soil:

Once the roots in your water-propagated basil are a couple of inches long, they’re ready for transplanting to soil. Dig a small hole in the potting mix, place the rooted cutting in, and gently cover the roots with soil. Water lightly.

Strengthening Soil-Rooted Plants:

If you started in soil, once your basil plant establishes a robust root system and begins showing new growth, consider transplanting it to a larger pot or directly in your garden if the climate allows.

Planting Basil Seeds

For successful basil seed planting, choose a sunny spot ensuring at least 6 to 8 hours of sunlight daily. Optimal soil pH is neutral for robust growth. Sow seeds in rows, covering them with about 1/4-inch (6.5 mm) of soil. Once seedlings reach a height of a few inches (5 to 10 cm), thin them out to 6 to 12 inches (15-30.5 cm) apart for ample room to flourish.

Planting Basil Seeds Indoors

For indoor basil planting, choose a sunny spot for the pot, ensuring it receives daily sunlight. Water your basil every seven to 10 days, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Indoor basil offers the convenience of fresh herbs year-round, adding flavor to your favorite dishes straight from your kitchen windowsill.

How To Propagate Basil From Cuttings

Propagating basil from cuttings is a simple and rewarding process, ideal for sharing your love of basil with others. Begin by selecting a 4-inch cutting just below a leaf node. Remove the lower leaves, leaving about 2 inches bare. Place the cutting in a clear glass of water on a sunny windowsill. Change the water every few days until roots emerge, typically within two to four weeks. Once roots are 2 inches long, transplant the cutting into a pot with direct sunlight. Sharing propagated basil plants with friends or neighbors makes for thoughtful gifts, spreading the joy of fresh herbs.

Growing Basil In Pots

Growing basil in pots offers convenience and versatility, making it accessible even for those with limited space. Select a well-draining pot with ample drainage holes to prevent waterlogging. Fill it with nutrient-rich potting soil and plant your basil seeds or seedlings. Place the pot in a sunny location, ensuring your basil receives at least six hours of sunlight daily. Regular watering and occasional fertilization will promote healthy growth. Potted basil not only adds flavor to your culinary creations but also serves as a fragrant and decorative addition to your home or garden.

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Basil is a warm-weather herb that thrives in temperatures between 70°F and 80°F (21°C-27°C). However, with the right preparation, it’s possible to grow basil indoors during the winter months. The best time to plant basil for winter depends on your location and the type of basil you want to grow.

Before You Get Started

Starting an indoor basil garden is simple and rewarding with the right materials. Begin with a premium organic soil mix, rich in nutrients to nourish your basil seeds without the immediate need for fertilizer. Choose high-quality genovese basil seeds, ensuring a steady supply of fresh herbs. Opt for 4-6″ pots, or better yet, self-watering containers like Pop-Out Pots for consistent soil moisture, promoting faster, healthier growth. Ensure your basil receives ample light, ideally from a south-facing window or a full-spectrum LED grow light, to mimic natural sunlight conditions. With these essentials, you’re set to grow lush, aromatic basil indoors.

Growing Basil Indoors In Winter

Growing basil indoors in winter is a great way to have fresh herbs available all year round. When growing basil indoors, it is important to choose a location that receives plenty of natural light, such as a windowsill that faces south or west. If you don’t have a sunny window, you can also use artificial grow lights to provide the necessary light for the plant. The ideal temperature for basil is between 60-70°F (15-21°C), so make sure to keep it away from any cold drafts or heating vents. It is also important to keep the soil moist, but not too wet, and to allow for proper drainage.

Planting Basil Seeds Indoors

Planting basil seeds indoors starts with selecting a high-quality seed mix and well-draining pots. Sow seeds lightly on the soil surface, covering them with a thin layer of soil. Position in a warm, sunny spot or under grow lights to ensure they receive 6-8 hours of light daily. Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. With the right warmth and light, seeds will germinate in 5-10 days, beginning your indoor basil garden.

How To Keep Basil Growing Indoors

For healthy indoor basil, provide 6-8 hours of sunlight daily, using a sunny spot or grow lights. Plant in well-draining soil and ensure pots have proper drainage. Water consistently, letting soil dry slightly between waterings. Maintain temperatures around 70°F. Prune regularly to promote bushiness and prevent bolting. Fertilize monthly with a diluted liquid fertilizer to nourish your basil, ensuring a steady supply of fresh, aromatic leaves for your culinary needs.

Potting Basil Plants

When potting basil plants, choose a container with drainage holes and fill it with well-draining, nutrient-rich soil. Ensure the pot is large enough to accommodate growth, promoting healthy root development and abundant leaf production for your culinary use.

Potting Soil & Drainage

For optimal basil growth, it’s crucial to use soil that retains moisture yet drains well. Enhance a premium potting mix by incorporating a handful of organic compost, enriching the soil with vital nutrients. Choose a pot equipped with ample drainage holes at the bottom to ensure excess water can escape, preventing the soil from becoming overly saturated or waterlogged.

Potting And Repotting Basil

When basil seedlings sprout in a starter tray, move them to a 4-inch pot combining potting mix and compost. Basil typically completes its life cycle within a year, negating the need for repotting. Yet, should roots crowd the pot or emerge from drainage holes, it’s time to repot the plant into a bigger pot with new potting mix.

Cold Hardy Basil Varieties

Basil is generally speaking not a fan of cold temperatures, but there are some varieties below here that tend to be a bit more hardy than the common sweet basil or holy basil for example. However, don’t expect to see any large harvest if the temperatures remain cold for a long time.

• Spicy Globe Basil: Compact and bushy, ideal for containers, with a spicy flavor.
• Purple Ruffles Basil: Dark purple, ruffled leaves, offering visual appeal and a mild, sweet flavor.
• Greek Basil: Small leaves, tight growth habit, highly aromatic, resilient in cooler climates.
• Lemon Basil: Citrus-scented leaves, cold-tolerant, versatile in culinary uses, adding a lemony twist.

Caring For Basil Indoors

Caring for basil indoors involves providing ample sunlight, at least 6-8 hours daily, either from a sunny windowsill or grow lights. Plant in well-draining soil within pots that facilitate proper drainage to prevent waterlogging. Keep the soil consistently moist, allowing the top layer to dry slightly between waterings. Maintain indoor temperatures around 70°F for optimal growth. Regular pruning not only promotes a bushier plant but also prevents flowering, ensuring a continuous supply of fresh, aromatic leaves for your culinary creations.

FAQ

Does Basil Die In Winter

Basil is a warm-weather herb that thrives in temperatures between 70 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit. It does not tolerate frost or extremely cold temperatures, and exposure to freezing temperatures will kill basil plants. As a result, basil is often grown as an annual plant in regions where temperatures drop below freezing during the winter months.

How Cold is Too Cold for Basil?

Basil plants are not tolerant of frost and cannot survive temperatures below 40°F (4°C) for an extended period. Temperatures below 50°F (10°C) can cause damage to the leaves and slow down growth. It’s important to monitor the temperature and take steps to protect your basil plants when the temperature drops.

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Basil is a popular herb used in many culinary dishes and is also known for its medicinal properties. However, if you are growing basil, you may be wondering if it is an annual or perennial plant. In this article, we will answer the question, “Does basil come back every year?”

Does Basil Come Back Every Year?

Basil is an annual herb, which means it completes its lifecycle in one growing season and does not come back every year. However, in some regions with mild winters, basil may reseed itself and grow again the following year as a self-seeding annual.

It is also possible to extend the lifespan of a basil plant by taking cuttings and propagating new plants. By doing this, you can keep the same basil plant going for several years, although the original plant will eventually die off. To keep basil plants producing for as long as possible, it’s important to keep them healthy and prevent them from flowering too soon. Pinching off any flower buds as soon as they appear will encourage the plant to put its energy into leaf production, which is what most people want from their basil plants.

Does Basil Come Back After Winter

Basil is a warm-weather plant that is sensitive to cold temperatures and frost. In most regions, it is grown as an annual plant, meaning it completes its life cycle within a single growing season and dies off at the end of the season. When winter arrives and temperatures drop, basil plants that are left outside will likely die due to the cold.

However, if you live in a region with mild winters, you may be able to keep your basil plant alive through the winter by bringing it indoors or covering it with a protective blanket. In this case, your basil plant may continue to grow and produce leaves, but it will likely slow down its growth and production during the winter months. If you allow your basil plant to go to seed in the fall, it may self-sow and produce new basil plants in the following spring. However, this process is unpredictable and may not result in the same quality of basil as the original plant. To ensure a steady supply of high-quality basil, it is best to start new plants from seeds or cuttings each year.

Does Sweet Basil Come Back Every Year

Sweet basil is an annual plant, which means that it completes its entire life cycle, from germination to flowering and seed production, in a single growing season. As a result, it does not come back every year on its own, and new plants must be grown from seed or purchased as seedlings. However, with proper care and management, it is possible to extend the lifespan of sweet basil plants and enjoy them for multiple growing seasons. One way to do this is by taking cuttings from mature plants and rooting them to produce new plants.

Another approach is to allow some of the basil plants to go to seed and collect the seeds for future planting. If the seeds are stored properly, they can remain viable for several years, allowing gardeners to continue growing sweet basil without having to purchase new seeds every year. It’s worth noting that sweet basil is sensitive to cold temperatures and frost, so even if the plants are protected, they may not survive the winter in colder climates. In these areas, gardeners may need to treat sweet basil as an annual and replant it every spring.

Why Does Yellow Basil Come Back

Basil plants can sometimes develop yellow leaves, which can be caused by various factors such as over-watering, under-watering, nutrient deficiencies, pests or diseases. However, if the yellowing of the basil plant is a result of natural aging, it will eventually lead to the death of the plant. As for whether yellow basil can come back, it depends on the underlying cause of the yellowing. If it is a result of a nutrient deficiency or pest infestation, addressing the underlying issue can help the plant recover and potentially grow new leaves. However, if the yellowing is due to natural aging or disease, the plant may not be able to recover.

It is important to note that regular pruning and harvesting of basil can help promote healthy growth and prevent issues such as nutrient deficiencies and pest infestations. It is also important to ensure that the basil plant is receiving adequate water, sunlight, and nutrients to promote healthy growth.

Is Basil A Perennial

Basil is typically grown as an annual herb in temperate climates due to its sensitivity to cold. However, in tropical and subtropical regions where frost is absent, basil can survive as a perennial, thriving for multiple years if properly cared for and protected from extreme conditions.

Is Thai Basil a Perennial?

Thai basil (Ocimum basilicum var. thyrsiflora), also known as “sweet basil” or “Asian basil,” is a popular herb in Southeast Asian cuisine. It has a distinct aroma and flavor, with hints of licorice, mint, and anise. Many people wonder if Thai basil is a perennial plant or an annual. The answer is that Thai basil is technically an annual plant, but it can sometimes act like a perennial in warm climates. In areas with mild winters, Thai basil may survive and regrow the following year. However, in colder climates, Thai basil is best grown as an annual.

Thai basil grows best in warm and humid conditions, with temperatures between 60°F and 90°F (16°C to 32°C). It requires full sun or partial shade, and well-draining soil. In cooler climates, Thai basil can be grown in pots or containers that can be brought indoors during the winter months. To harvest Thai basil, pinch off the top leaves and stems to encourage bushier growth. It can be used in a variety of dishes, including curries, stir-fries, soups, and salads. Thai basil also has many health benefits, as it is rich in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties.

Caring For Basil Outdoors

Caring for basil outdoors involves ensuring it receives 6-8 hours of sunlight daily, as the herb thrives in warm, sunny conditions. Plant basil in well-draining, fertile soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH. Water the plants regularly, allowing the soil to slightly dry out between waterings to prevent root rot. Mulching around the plants can help retain soil moisture and suppress weeds. Regular pruning encourages bushier growth and prevents bolting, where the plant starts to flower, which can affect the flavor of the leaves. Protect basil from cold snaps and frost, as it is sensitive to low temperatures.

FAQ

Does Potted Basil Grow Back Every Year?

Basil is a popular herb that can be grown in containers or pots. One question that often comes up when growing basil in pots is whether it will grow back every year. The answer is that it depends on the type of basil you are growing and the growing conditions. If you are growing an annual basil variety, it will not come back next year. These types of basil plants complete their life cycle in one growing season and die off in the fall. Examples of annual basil varieties include sweet basil, Thai basil, and lemon basil.

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