Botanical profile

'Ajaka' Basil

Latin name
Ocimum basilicum 'Ajaka'
Common name
'Ajaka' Basil
Type
Annual aromatic herb
Family
Lamiaceae

‘Ajaka’ basil is a very interesting aromatic and ornamental variety for pots, herb containers, urban vegetable gardens, and edible flowerbeds. It forms a vigorous, bushy plant with very fragrant dark green foliage and a beautiful decorative presence. Less prone to bolting quickly than some classic basils, it allows for a longer and more regular harvest for cooking.

Easy to cultivate, ‘Ajaka’ basil prefers a warm and sunny location, with fertile, light, and well-drained soil. It is very well suited for container cultivation, especially on a terrace, balcony, or near the kitchen, where its leaves can be harvested as needed. Its aromatic foliage is used in pestos, sauces, salads, tomato dishes, soups, marinades, and several summer recipes.

Care guide

Care level
Easy

Choosing this plant

Main benefit
Decorative and aromatic edible variegated foliage
Vegetable garden, herbs, balcony, container, edible border
Container growing
Excellent for containers in a well-drained pot
Seasonal care
Pinch regularly to encourage a bushy habit; remove flowers to prolong leaf production
Growing conditions

Light, soil, water and hardiness

Hardiness zone
Not hardy
Exposure
Full sun
Watering
Regular; keep the soil slightly moist without overwatering
Humidity
Average humidity; prefers warm, well-drained soil
Fertilization
Light and regular fertilization when potted; avoid excess nitrogen
Soil type
Fertile, light, warm, and well-drained soil
Soil pH
Slightly acidic to neutral
Minimum temperature
10°C
Propagation method
Sowing or cuttings
Plant appearance

Blooming, foliage and shape

Blooming period
Harvest and Bloom from Summer to Fall
Flower color
White to pale purple
Foliage color
Green variegated with cream
Foliage type
Persistent in hot climates
Shape
Compact bushy habit
Garden structure

Size and growth

Height
30 to 45 cm (12 to 18 inches)
Width
25 to 30 cm (10 to 12 inches)
Growth rate
Rapid growth
Vegetable garden and yield

Companion planting, spacing and harvest

Companion plants
Tomatoes, peppers, eggplants, parsley
Plants to avoid
Rue
Spacing
25 to 30 cm (10 to 12 inches)
Harvest period
Leaves from spring to autumn
Not recommended for pets
Not recommended for pets

Pets

Repellent
Helps repel certain pests

Repellent

The availability of our plants varies depending on arrivals, seasons, nursery production and supplier availability. Some varieties may be offered for a limited time only, depending on their natural cycle or current stock. These plant profiles are designed to guide and inspire you when choosing plants for the garden, landscaping projects, containers or long-lasting outdoor arrangements.