Basil

Basil

Scientific Name:
Ocimum basiclicum

Family:
Lamiaceae

Varieties:

• Genovese "prosepera compact" (pelleted) (ID: 168)
• Genovese "prosepera compact" (non-pelleted) (ID: 169)

Introduction

Ocimum basilicum, commonly known as sweet basil, is a plant species within the genus Ocimum and the family Lamiaceae (mints). It is renowned for its culinary and medicinal properties, particularly its carminative effects. Basil is native to tropical regions from Central Africa to Southeast Asia and has been cultivated for over 5,000 years, with significant cultural and culinary importance worldwide. The name “basil” is often associated with the Greek word for “king,” reflecting its historical use in royal perfumes and its esteemed status as “the king of herbs”.

Characteristics

• Physical Characteristics: Basil plants typically grow between 1 and 5 feet tall, with glossy, ovate leaves that are arranged oppositely on square stems. The leaves can be green or purple, depending on the variety. Flowers are small and white, growing from a central inflorescence.
• Growing Conditions: Basil prefers well-drained soil and full sun. It is highly sensitive to frost and is usually grown as an annual in temperate climates but can be perennial in warmer regions.
• Lifecycle: Basil is an annual or short-lived perennial herb. It thrives in warm temperatures and requires protection from frost.

Why is this crop useful for space?

Basil could be beneficial for space cultivation due to several reasons: - Air Purification: Like many plants, basil can help purify the air by removing volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which is crucial in closed environments like spacecraft. - Psychological Benefits: Growing plants in space can have psychological benefits for astronauts, providing a sense of connection to nature and improving mental health. - Nutritional Value: Basil is rich in vitamins A and K, and its essential oils have antimicrobial properties, which could be valuable in space where access to fresh herbs is limited. - Low Maintenance: Basil is relatively easy to grow and maintain, making it a suitable choice for controlled environments like hydroponic systems used in space.

History of Cultivation in Space (if there is any)

While specific information on the cultivation of Ocimum basilicum in space is not readily available, there have been experiments with growing plants in space. For example, NASA’s Veggie project has successfully grown various crops, including lettuce and zinnia flowers, on the International Space Station (ISS). These experiments aim to develop sustainable food systems for long-duration space missions. Basil, with its ease of cultivation and nutritional benefits, could be a candidate for future space gardening initiatives. However, specific details on basil cultivation in space are not documented in the available literature.