Lemon
Basil · Lemon
Open Pollinated
Ocimum x africanum
★ 5.01 review · 2 sources
Lamiaceae (Mint family) · Genus: Ocimum
About
Lemony flavor and aroma—a treat in cooking or the garden! It lends incredible flavor to salads, tomato dishes, cheese omelets, and pesto.
Characteristics
Color
Green
About the Plant
Life Cycle
Annual
❄
Hardiness
Warm-Season/Very Tender
☀
Exposure
Full Sun
💧
Moisture
Evenly Moist but Well Drained
🌱
Germination
5–10 days
at 65–80 °F
⏳
Days to Maturity
80 days
How to Plant
🏠
Start Indoors
4-6 Weeks Before Last Frost
Transplant
2-4 Weeks After Last Frost
🌸
Direct Sow (Spring)
2-4 Weeks After Last Frost
🪴
Container Friendly
Yes
Planting Depth
0.25 in
Seed Spacing
10 in
Row Spacing
10 in
Thin To
12 in
🌡
Optimal Soil Temp
70–80 °F
🌡
Soil Temp
65–80 °F
🌡
Air Temp
40 °F
When to Plant in Your Area
Enter your US ZIP code to see planting dates for your area. Sign up to save it.
Planting and Care Instructions
Start seeds indoors, 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost. Sow in open ground well exposed when soil is warm. Thin when plants are a few inches tall. Transplant to garden after frost. Harden off before transplanting.
Available From (2)
Reviews (1)
Marcus SchulzZone 6a
★★★★★August 26, 2026