I sent 3 basil varieties to Tomatoaddict: Anisovyi, Tonus (both from Russia) and Ararat (from Armenia). I like basils very much and have some more varieties from Russia...

Tom-does the purple basil smell any different than the others? I know you haven't tasted it yet-but I'm wondering if there will be any difference between it and the original.

I've never grown any purple basil before...I wouldn't mind it...in fact, I've planted nasturtiums this year for the sole purpose of adding them to salads. I think they will look beautiful on a plate of mixed lettuces, with multicolored cherry tomatoes! :cute:

Thats a great question!
I really do need to try it to see if its even worth saving.

During the off season, I had received seeds for Napolitano basil
(a green lettuce leaf type) and out off all the tiny seedlings that popped up, this was the only purple. I have heard that basil cross pollinates pretty easily.

If it tastes good, I'm gonna let it bolt and go to seed.
If not? Well, you know, lol

~ Tom

[IMG]http://i37.photobucket.com/albums/e94/tomstrees/Tomatoes%202008%20Start/025.jpg[/IMG]

[IMG]http://i37.photobucket.com/albums/e94/tomstrees/033.jpg[/IMG]

well, what happened? was it any good?

I have some like that. Mine is called Purple Opal basil. It has a strong scent. I love it!

I had a surprise purple seedling come out of the Aroma variety I bought from JSS. I am guessing that it isn't all that difficult to get a crossed seed or errant seed in basil batches.

My favorite purple basil is Sweet Petra Dark. Tastes like regular Italian basil, but has very dark purple leaves.

Just had some for dinner in pasta sauce.

[quote=garnetmoth;126486]well, what happened? was it any good?[/quote]

wasn't as strong as some of the other varieties I've tried - will see if this generation gets more potent ;)

~ Tom