Basil
Basil, known by its formal name as ocimum basilicum of the family of the lamiaceae, is a herb that grows to a height of one foot to three feet tall. The leaves are a lush green and it has small white flowers that will produce small black seeds. It has been said that basil tastes similar to anise.
Basil is originally native to the tropical countries of Asia, namely India and has been cultivated there for thousands of years. Basil means king in the Greek language.
Basil doesn't like the cold, and grows best in warmer and dry conditions.Basil grows best in sunny spots outside, it can also be grown inside in a pot in a sunny windowsill. Basil will act as an annual if there are any cold temperatures. You can grow basil by putting some root cuttings halfway in water. Basil plants are 'topped" by pulling some of the leaves to make the basil plant produce more.
Basil is commonly used fresh in cooked dishes. It is added toward the last of the cooking dish to keep its flavor. Basil is found a lot in Italian cuisine, chiefly "pesto" and called sweet basil but is also found in Asian cuisines.
In southeast Asia, fresh basil leaves are added to soups.They also eat fried chicken with basil leaves. Basil is sometimes used with fresh fruit like strawberries and raspberries and in jams and sauces.
Lemon basil has a lemon aroma and flavor and it is used in Indonesia with vegetables and salad ingredients and severed with main courses of seafood or game birds.
The flowers of basil are sometimes used in salad, also.The seeds of certain basil plants are used in Asian drinks and desserts. Basil is also used for medicinal purposes in India.