Ocimum basilicum 'Magic Mountain'
Am I evergreen?
Yes, Ocimum basilicum 'Magic Mountain' is not evergreen and loses its leaves in the fall. It is an herbaceous plant that starts growing again in the spring after the winter. It is often grown as an annual plant.
How many degrees of winter hardiness am I?
I am not frost-hardy and cannot survive in cold temperatures below 10 degrees Celsius. It's best to keep me in a warm environment, such as in a greenhouse or as a houseplant. I will not thrive well in the garden during the winter.
Am I easy to maintain?
Yes, this plant is easy to maintain. It requires little care and thrives well in full sun. Regular watering and pruning promote growth.
How much space do I need?
The plant needs about 30-40 centimeters of space between other plants. It is recommended to place the plant in a sunny spot with well-draining soil. Keep in mind that the plant can also grow in height, so make sure to provide enough space.
Do I grow well in the shade?
The plant grows best in full sun and requires at least 6 hours of sunlight per day. In the shade, the growth and development of the plant will be hindered. Therefore, choose a sunny spot in the garden for this plant.
How many times a week do I need water?
The plant needs regular watering, especially during warm periods. It is important to keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged. Generally, it is sufficient to water the plant once a week.
Am I a butterfly and a bee attractant?
Yes, this plant attracts butterflies and bees due to the flowers that produce nectar. It can be a beautiful addition to a garden to attract these helpful pollinators.
Am I good for biodiversity?
Yes, basil has a strong attraction to pollinators such as bees and butterflies, which contributes to biodiversity in the garden. Additionally, basil can also act as a natural pest control by attracting beneficial insects. Planting basil can definitely help enhance biodiversity in your garden.
In which months do I bloom and for how long?
The plant blooms from June to September and typically blooms for about 3 to 4 months.
Can I tolerate full sun?
Yes, this plant can tolerate full sun and needs a lot of sunlight to grow and bloom well. Make sure to provide enough water and nutrients to keep the plant healthy in the sun. It is also important to prune the plant regularly to maintain a compact shape.
Am I edible?
Yes, the leaves of this plant are edible and are often used as a herb in the kitchen. It has a strong aromatic flavor and is mainly added to salads, pastas, and sauces. It is important to wash the leaves well before consumption.
Am I sound deadening?
Yes, basil plants have the ability to absorb sound and can therefore slightly reduce noise in a room. However, the effect will be minimal compared to other plants specifically grown for sound absorption. The main advantage of basil plants is their ability to improve air quality and promote a healthy living environment.