Ocimum basilicum Loki

The Ocimum basilicum 'Loki' is a variety of Genovese basil that stands out for its strong resistance to powdery mildew and its dense and compact growth, reaching a height of 20 to 25 cm (8 to 10in). This vigorous variety comes from Genovese basil, traditionally cultivated in Italy for the famous "pesto alla genovese". It produces beautiful tender, wide, and wavy leaves with a lovely bright green colour. The fresh leaves are highly aromatic and flavourful. They pleasantly season salads, raw vegetables, omelettes, and add flavor to fish and pasta dishes. When harvested in bunches, this basil keeps well dried. It is perfect for growing in pots or containers on a balcony or window ledge, with regular watering, but without excess, avoiding wetting the foliage. In the vegetable garden, it prefers an airy location, in the sun, with rich and well-drained soil. Sow from March to May for a harvest that will span from June to October.

The use of basil in the Mediterranean region dates back to ancient times. In Roman culture, this plant was a symbol of lovers, while in Greek culture, it symbolized hatred and misfortune! Basil is a culinary herb used to flavour and enhance dishes. Rich in essential oils, basil has soothing, anti-inflammatory, and stimulating properties.

The 'Loki' Basil offers very high resistance to basil powdery mildew, a greyish-white powdery coating that covers the leaves, new shoots, and flower buds. In case of severe infestation, young leaves, tender stems, and even affected buds become deformed. This variety is therefore well-suited for organic cultivation.

Basil flowers contain essential oils based on eucalyptol and eugenol. Its use helps fight anxiety and infections; it is an antispasmodic and antibacterial with calming and relaxing properties.

In the garden, Basil thrives in good humus-bearing and well-drained soil. It particularly dislikes cold and excessive moisture. It should be planted in non-burning sun or partial shade. Basil is an easy and practical plant to grow in pots or containers. To maintain sufficiently rich soil, provide an annual supply of well-decomposed compost (3 kg/m²) in late autumn or early spring.

Harvest: between 6 to 10 weeks after sowing. From early summer to autumn, harvest the leaves as needed by simply cutting them by hand or with scissors. The optimal time to harvest your potent basil is when its leaves release a pleasant and appealing fragrance.

Usage: Basil 'Loki' is appreciated for its mild, herbaceous, and aniseed flavor, ideal for garnishing and flavouring fresh and cooked dishes. It pairs well with many ingredients such as tomatoes, cheeses, fruits, and meats. The leaves enhance the flavours of Italian, Thai, and French cuisine. It is well-suited for making pesto (or pesto alla genovese), a traditional condiment in Italian cuisine. It can be stored in the refrigerator in water or between paper towels.

Storage: Basil can be stored for a few days in a cool place in a glass filled with water. It can also be dried in the shade and stored in an airtight jar, although it may lose some of its fragrance.

Gardener's tip: If you use your 'Loki' basil for culinary purposes, don't hesitate to regularly pinch the plant and water it to stimulate the production of new leaves. If, on the other hand, you want intense and long-lasting flowering throughout the summer, remove faded inflorescences to initiate the formation of new flowers.

Tip: In a vegetable garden, a beneficial association consists of growing basil between each tomato plant. Basil roots secrete nematocidal substances that provide protection to tomatoes against nematodes. This association is also extremely practical as it allows for harvesting tomatoes and basil in one place, creating an ideal combination for preparing a deliciously fragrant and flavourful summer salad!