Gusto™ Basil

Gusto Basil (Ocimum basilicum 'GB03') is a Greek type basil bred by Ozbreed with bold, zesty flavour and a hint of spicy Italian. It grows 35cm to 45cm high and about 40cm wide, and its leaves are generally larger than other Greek basils, so it is quicker to pick and easier to prepare.

Why you'll love it

• Bold, zesty flavour. A stronger Greek basil with a hint of Italian spice, so it holds its own in cooking.
• Larger leaves. The leaves are generally larger than other Greek basils, which makes harvesting and preparing quicker.
• Consistent plants. It is cutting grown for even, strong flavour from plant to plant.
• Handles cool weather better. Ozbreed lists a high tolerance to cold, which helps at the edges of the season. Like all basil it is still not frost proof.
• Versatile in the kitchen. The Italian hint suits tomato dishes and pasta, and the Greek heritage suits Mediterranean cooking generally.

Where it works best

Kitchen garden beds. Plant 30cm to 40cm apart in full sun to part shade through spring and summer, and into early autumn where the weather stays warm.

Pots and balconies. A pot of 25cm or more holds one plant and keeps fresh leaves beside the kitchen door.

Among tomatoes and vegetables. Basil and tomatoes are natural partners at the table, and a few plants fit easily between vegetable rows.

In the kitchen. Use it for creative cooking, Italian dishes and Greek or wider Mediterranean recipes.

Growing Gusto Basil in Australia

Position and climate. Full sun to part shade, planted in spring and summer. Basil is a warm season herb. In frosty gardens it is grown as an annual: plant out after the last frost and expect it to finish with the first cold snap, even though this selection copes with cool weather better than most. In frost free gardens it lasts for longer.

Soil. Fertile, well drained soil or potting mix suits it. Work compost into the bed before planting.

Water and feed. Keep the soil moist, but avoid over watering and waterlogged conditions. In spring use a slow release fertiliser or work in compost. Avoid over fertilising, which grows soft, bland leaves.

Pruning and harvest. Pick regularly from the top, taking stems just above a pair of leaves so the plant branches and stays bushy. Pinch out flower buds as they appear to keep the leaves coming.

What to expect when it arrives

We list Gusto Basil in 140mm pots in packs of 10. Stock comes from Ozbreed's licensed growers and is grown to order at times, so a size can show as backorder. Order it and we confirm timing with you before anything ships.

Plants are delivered Australia wide, with delivery from $29.95. Every plant is covered by our 30 day healthy plant guarantee.

Plant care guides and related reading

• Edible plants and bush tucker
• Growing a successful fruit and vegetable garden
• Plants that thrive in pots
• See the full Ozbreed range

Common questions

How is it different from ordinary basil?

It is a Greek type with a stronger, zestier flavour and a hint of Italian spice, and its leaves are generally larger than other Greek basils.

Is it perennial?

In frost free gardens it can last more than one season. Where frosts occur, grow it as a summer annual.

How far apart should I plant it?

Plant 30cm to 40cm apart. It reaches about 40cm wide.