Dark Opal Basil

Open-Pollinated | Annual | Variegated

Meet the showstopper of the basil world — Dark Opal. With deep purple leaves, ruffled edges, and a flavor as intense as it looks, this basil is here to make your garden (and your dishes) pop. Don’t be surprised to spot a bit of variegation or even some green among the purple, she’s all about drama.

Grown for those who love to mix style with flavor, Dark Opal’s bold color and spicy-sweet aroma are perfect for drinks, salads, and pasta dishes, while the tiny purple flowers make an edible garnish that’s almost too pretty to eat. Almost.

These starts are ready to thrive in your garden beds, raised planters, or patio pots. With a bit of sun and consistent moisture, Dark Opal’s ready to turn any garden corner into an edible centerpiece.

Quick Facts

• Type: Open-pollinated, annual

• Height at Maturity: 16–18"

• Flavor: Intense, classic basil with a hint of spice

• Days to Harvest: 30–35 to baby leaf; 80–100 to seed
  

• Best For: Container gardens, raised beds, garden beds, fresh eating, edible garnishes
  
  

Care Tips

• Sunlight: Full sun for that deep color and full flavor

• Soil: Moderately rich and consistently moist, basil loves water but hates soggy roots

• Water: Keep evenly moist for lush growth and vibrant leaves

• Spacing: Plant 4–8" apart for airflow and easy harvesting

• Harvest: Snip leaves as needed or cut back 4–6" above the ground before flowering for fresh growth
  
  

• Support: None needed, just good soil, water, and your kitchen scissors