Wild Basil – Clinopodium vulgare

Wild Basil (Clinopodium vulgare) sometimes known as Hedge Basil or Hedge Calamint, is a straggling plant which is somewhat weak looking and is a member of the Mint family. It can reach a height of 20 – 60cm with a hairy, unbranched stem with a weak fragrance.
The leaves are often 1 – 2 inches long and are placed opposite eachother on a 4 angled stem, with the edges of the leaves being slightly toothed and the stem soft with hairs.
The flower is tubular with a pink colour and are arranged in several crowded rings. Due to its fait aromatic fragrance and Thyme like odor it can often be used as an infusion scent.

Wild Basil and Basil Thyme are often confused, but to identify them, Wild Basil is taller and lives longer than Basil Thyme, but requires less open habitat than Basil Thyme.

Height: 40 – 75cm
Flowering Time: July to September
Preferred Conditions: Wild Basil likes dry calcareous soil and will be found in damp woodland areas and hedgerows.

Wild Basil - Clinopodium vulgare