Basil Rubra, also known as Red Ruby, is a mid-season variety distinguished by its striking decorative leaf coloration — a rich red-violet hue. The plant forms a spreading bush of medium size, reaching up to 65 cm in height and weighing around 200-220 g. The leaves are large, uniform, and densely foliated, giving the plant an attractive appearance and making it popular not only for culinary use but also for decorative purposes.
This basil variety possesses an unusual fruity-vanilla aroma, which is retained even after drying, expanding its culinary applications. Rubra is excellent for fresh consumption in salads and other dishes, with young foliage capable of being harvested multiple times per season. Mature plants are used for drying and long-term storage. Thanks to its high immunity to diseases and drought resistance, Rubra basil grows easily in open ground as well as in protected conditions, including home windowsills and balcony beds.
Growing Rubra basil can be done either by direct sowing of seeds or via seedlings, with the latter considered more reliable and preferred for industrial and private plantings. The plant requires sunny spots, regular watering, and fertilization, but does not have stringent care requirements. The vegetation period lasts about 65-70 days from seedling emergence, allowing for harvest from spring to autumn, or year-round in greenhouses. The variety is produced by seed company Hem Zaden from the Netherlands and the brand Rich Harvest (OHRA Saaten GmbH, Germany), ensuring high seed quality and crop stability.
