Basil

*Ocimum basilicum*

How to know it

A soft stemmed herb with paired oval leaves and small white or purple flower spikes. Thai basil has purple stems and a strong aniseed note. Holy basil is peppery and used in ritual across South Asia.

What it does

Used in cooking worldwide. Holy basil, tulsi, is grown at the doorway of many South Asian homes and used both ceremonially and as a tea. Basil grows so quickly from seed that it suits children who want visible results.

Safety

Safe to handle and taste.

Two things to do with children

Grow three types in three pots and smell them side by side. Same plant family, three completely different smells, which is a strong argument for using your nose before your eyes.

Pinch out the growing tip and watch the plant get bushier rather than taller. It is the simplest demonstration of pruning there is.