Roman Ruby™ Basil

Roman Ruby Basil (Ocimum basilicum) is a ruby leafed basil bred by Ozbreed with a stronger flavour than other ruby types, so you can add colour, style and full flavour to the kitchen and the garden. It grows about 30cm high and wide, vigorous and well branched, with large, richly coloured leaves.

Why you'll love it

• Stronger than other ruby basils. Ruby types are often mild, and this one carries a stronger, classic basil flavour.
• More Italian flavour. Ozbreed rates it as more Italian in flavour than other basil types.
• Large, colourful leaves. The foliage adds colour to a garden bed as well as a plate.
• Vigorous and well branched. A busy habit gives plenty of tips to pick through summer.
• Cutting grown. Cuttings give strong, consistent flavour from plant to plant.

Where it works best

Kitchen garden beds. Plant 25cm to 30cm apart in late spring or summer, in well drained, fertile soil.

Mixed borders. Use it as a colourful, edible filler between greens, where the ruby leaves stand out.

Pots. A pot of 25cm or more holds one plant, and looks good on a sunny step.

In the kitchen. Use it like ordinary basil, with a touch of colour and stronger flavour. Add it to salads and bakes, make a ruby pesto, or steep leaves in vinegar to colour it.

Growing Roman Ruby Basil in Australia

Position and climate. Full sun is best. Plant in late spring or summer, once the soil is warm. Basil is a warm season herb, so in frosty gardens grow it as a summer annual and plant out after the last frost. In frost free gardens it can last more than a season.

Soil. Well drained, fertile soil or good 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, apply a slow release fertiliser or work in compost. Avoid over fertilising, which grows soft, watery leaves.

Pruning and harvest. Pick regularly from the tips, taking stems just above a pair of leaves so the plant branches and stays full. Pinch out flower buds to keep the leaves coming. Use leaves fresh, or in vinegar and pesto, because heat dulls the ruby colour.

What to expect when it arrives

We list Roman Ruby 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

What can I make with it?

Use it like normal basil in salads and bakes, make a ruby pesto, or add leaves to vinegar to give it colour.

Does the colour last when cooked?

Heat dulls the ruby colour, so use the leaves fresh or in pesto and vinegar where the colour shows.

How far apart should I plant it?

Plant 25cm to 30cm apart. It reaches about 30cm wide.