Mint — Basil

: Some gardeners use it to create a "frugal pesto," substituting standard basil with a handful of basil mint leaves and using sunflower seeds instead of pine nuts. Growing and Maintenance

: Frequent harvesting or pinching back the stems encourages the plant to bush out and remain productive throughout the season. Characteristics and History basil mint

: The plant thrives in moist, fertile soil and prefers full sun to partial shade. : Some gardeners use it to create a

: While it loves light, too much direct sun can cause "sunburned" crispy leaves, whereas too little light leads to leggy, sparse growth. : While it loves light, too much direct

: It excels in tomato-based dishes, pasta, homemade pizzas, and lasagnes.

Part of the Lamiaceae family, Basil Mint is a perennial that forms upright clumps with characteristic square stems. In late spring and summer, it produces whorls of pale purple to lilac flowers that are highly attractive to pollinators like bees and butterflies.

: Because of its fresh aroma, it is also popular in teas, desserts, and even as a breath freshener.