Scent Leaf Basil (Ocimum gratissimum), also known as African Basil, Clove Basil, or Nchanwu, is a highly aromatic, medicinal, and culinary herb treasured in West African, Caribbean, and Southeast Asian cooking. With its bold, clove-like fragrance and peppery undertones, this basil is essential for flavoring stews, soups, and traditional herbal remedies.
This culturally significant variety is part of the African Diaspora Collection, grown in collaboration with True Love Seeds, preserving ancestral foodways and celebrating the resilience and traditions of African communities worldwide.
Why You’ll Love It:
🌿 Rich, Clove-Like Aroma – Adds bold, peppery flavor to African and Caribbean dishes.
🍲 Essential for West African Cuisine – Used in soups, stews, and medicinal teas.
🐝 Pollinator-Friendly – Attracts bees and butterflies while deterring pests.
☀️ Heat-Loving & Hardy – Thrives in warm, tropical conditions with minimal care.
🖤 Part of the African Diaspora Collection – Grown with True Love Seeds, honoring traditional food heritage.
⚠️ Note: Like other members of the mint family, Scent Leaf Basil spreads aggressively and should be grown in containers or contained garden spaces to prevent it from overtaking other plants.
Container Growing Tips:
🪴 Pot Size: Use a 12-inch or larger pot to support healthy root growth.
🌿 Soil: Well-draining potting mix with compost for added nutrients.
💧 Watering: Keep soil consistently moist but avoid soggy conditions.
🌞 Light: Needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight or use LED grow lights indoors.
✂️ Pruning: Frequent harvesting encourages bushy growth and prevents flowering too soon.
Perfect for West African cooks, herbalists, and cultural food preservers, Scent Leaf Basil from the African Diaspora Collection ensures a steady supply of flavorful, medicinal leaves, keeping cultural traditions alive in every meal!
