Basil 'Everleaf Lemon'
Everleaf Lemon Basil (Ocimum basilicum 'Everleaf Lemon') is a distinctive and aromatic herb renowned for its zesty citrus flavor and compact growth habit. As a cultivar of basil, it belongs to the mint family (Lamiaceae) and stands out for its unique lemony twist. This annual herb is a delightful addition to gardens and culinary creations, offering a burst of refreshing citrus notes that elevate various dishes and beverages.
The compact nature of Everleaf Lemon Basil makes it particularly well-suited for small gardens, container planting, or even indoor herb gardens. It typically grows to a height of 10 to 12 inches, presenting bushy and well-branched foliage. The leaves are bright green and emit a pronounced lemon fragrance when gently touched or bruised. The plant's ability to maintain a compact form without sacrificing flavor makes it a versatile choice for those with limited gardening space or those looking to cultivate herbs indoors.
Culinary enthusiasts appreciate Everleaf Lemon Basil for its versatility in the kitchen. The leaves of this basil variety can be used fresh or dried to infuse a lemony essence into salads, marinades, desserts, and beverages. Whether incorporated into a summer salad, paired with fish, or added to a refreshing lemonade, Everleaf Lemon Basil brings a unique and invigorating twist to a wide range of culinary delights. With its vibrant flavor and manageable size, this lemon-infused basil cultivar continues to captivate both gardeners and cooks alike.
The compact nature of Everleaf Lemon Basil makes it particularly well-suited for small gardens, container planting, or even indoor herb gardens. It typically grows to a height of 10 to 12 inches, presenting bushy and well-branched foliage. The leaves are bright green and emit a pronounced lemon fragrance when gently touched or bruised. The plant's ability to maintain a compact form without sacrificing flavor makes it a versatile choice for those with limited gardening space or those looking to cultivate herbs indoors.
Culinary enthusiasts appreciate Everleaf Lemon Basil for its versatility in the kitchen. The leaves of this basil variety can be used fresh or dried to infuse a lemony essence into salads, marinades, desserts, and beverages. Whether incorporated into a summer salad, paired with fish, or added to a refreshing lemonade, Everleaf Lemon Basil brings a unique and invigorating twist to a wide range of culinary delights. With its vibrant flavor and manageable size, this lemon-infused basil cultivar continues to captivate both gardeners and cooks alike.
Everleaf Lemon Basil (Ocimum basilicum 'Everleaf Lemon') thrives in specific growing conditions that contribute to its compact growth and the development of its unique citrus flavor. Here are the key conditions that this basil variety typically prefers:
- Sunlight: Everleaf Lemon Basil loves full sun exposure. Plant it in a location where it receives at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Adequate sunlight enhances the development of essential oils responsible for the lemony fragrance and flavor.
- Soil: Well-drained and fertile soil is crucial for Everleaf Lemon Basil. A loamy or sandy soil with good drainage is preferable. Adding organic matter, such as compost, to the soil before planting helps provide essential nutrients.
- Watering: Basil prefers consistently moist but not waterlogged soil. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry. Use a watering method that directs water to the base of the plant to avoid wetting the foliage excessively.
- Temperature: Everleaf Lemon Basil thrives in warm temperatures. Plant it after the last frost in spring, as basil is sensitive to cold temperatures. It prefers temperatures between 70°F to 85°F (21°C to 29°C).
- Spacing: When planting Everleaf Lemon Basil, provide sufficient spacing to allow for air circulation and prevent overcrowding. Proper spacing helps reduce the risk of fungal diseases.
- Fertilization: Basil benefits from a balanced fertilizer applied at planting time. However, avoid excessive nitrogen, as this can lead to lush growth at the expense of flavor. You can also side-dress with compost during the growing season.
- Pruning: Regular pruning is beneficial for Everleaf Lemon Basil. Pinch off the tips regularly to encourage branching and prevent the plant from flowering too early. This promotes a bushy growth habit and prolongs the harvest period.
- Container Gardening: Everleaf Lemon Basil is well-suited for container gardening. Use a well-draining potting mix, and ensure that the container has drainage holes. Container planting allows for mobility and is ideal for smaller spaces.
One delightful recipe that showcases the bright and citrusy flavor of Everleaf Lemon Basil is "Lemon Basil Pesto Pasta." This simple and refreshing dish combines the aromatic notes of lemon basil with garlic, nuts, and Parmesan cheese to create a flavorful pesto sauce that beautifully coats pasta. Here's how to make it:
Lemon Basil Pesto Pasta:
Ingredients:
For the Lemon Basil Pesto:
1. Make Lemon Basil Pesto:
Lemon Basil Pesto Pasta:
Ingredients:
For the Lemon Basil Pesto:
- 2 cups fresh Everleaf Lemon Basil leaves, packed
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup pine nuts or walnuts
- 3 garlic cloves, peeled
- 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- Zest of one lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 12 ounces (about 340g) of your favorite pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or any shape you prefer)
- Cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
- Additional Parmesan cheese for garnish
- Lemon slices for garnish (optional)
1. Make Lemon Basil Pesto:
- In a food processor, combine Everleaf Lemon Basil leaves, Parmesan cheese, pine nuts or walnuts, garlic cloves, and lemon zest.
- Pulse the ingredients until coarsely chopped.
- With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the pesto reaches a smooth consistency.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water before draining.
- In a large bowl, toss the cooked pasta with the Lemon Basil Pesto, adding reserved pasta cooking water as needed to reach your desired consistency.
- Garnish the Lemon Basil Pesto Pasta with halved cherry tomatoes, additional Parmesan cheese, and lemon slices if desired.
- Serve immediately, allowing everyone to enjoy the vibrant flavors of the lemon basil pesto.