Purple Ruffles Basil

Purple Ruffles Basil is an ornamental and culinary basil valued for deeply colored, ruffled leaves and a mild anise aroma. Its mounded, upright habit suits a patio pot or sunny herb bed, where the foliage contrasts with green-leaved herbs. [PanAmerican Seed](https://www.panamseed.com/products/009100001004387/basil-purple-ruffles/) lists an 18–24 inch mature height and width and summer flowering; [North Carolina Extension](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/ocimum-basilicum/) identifies Purple Ruffles as a purple-leaved basil cultivar. ## Garden use Grow it where the foliage can be seen and harvested easily, such as a container near a kitchen door or the front of a sunny border. The leaves are edible and aromatic, with a mild anise character noted by the breeder. In a mixed planting, pair its deep purple color with green herbs or bright annual flowers. ## Growing Basil is a warm-season herb. North Carolina Extension recommends full sun and moist, well-drained soil for sweet basil; transplant outdoors after frost danger has passed. The breeder lists sun exposure and an 18–24 inch mature spread. Use a pot with drainage and water when the soil begins to dry rather than letting the root zone remain waterlogged. ## Maintenance Harvest outer leaves regularly for the kitchen. Pinch stem tips and developing flower buds to encourage branching and continued leafy growth, following general basil guidance from [North Carolina Extension](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/ocimum-basilicum/).