Mrs. Burns' Lemon Basil (Ocimum basilicum) Seeds

Mrs. Burns’ Lemon Basil (Ocimum basilicum) is a vigorous, aromatic heirloom basil with bright green foliage and a bushy growth habit ideal for sunny garden spaces. This non-GMO variety produces fine-textured leaves and attractive white flower clusters that draw beneficial pollinators. Well-suited for container growing, raised beds, and herb garden borders, this variety thrives in warm climates and provides a long season of leafy growth.

Features

• Non-GMO heirloom Lemon Basil variety
• Aromatic foliage with strong garden fragrance
• Attractive to bees and beneficial pollinators
• Vigorous growth in sunny borders and raised beds
• Excellent for container and patio gardening
• Produces abundant foliage throughout summer

Specifications

• Common Name: Lemon Basil, Mrs. Burns’ Lemon Basil
• Scientific Name: Ocimum basilicum
• Plant Type: Annual
• USDA Zones: 4–11 (warm-season annual)
• Season: Late spring through summer
• Height: 18–30 inches
• Foliage: Narrow bright green aromatic leaves
• Bloom Color: White
• Heirloom: Yes
• GMO Status: Non-GMO
• Organic: Not certified organic
• Light Requirements: Full sun
• Soil Preference: Fertile, well-drained soil
• Water Needs: Moderate, consistent moisture
• Growth Rate: Fast
• Days to Maturity: 60–75 days
• Heat Tolerance: Excellent
• Cold Tolerance: Poor; frost sensitive
• Plant Spacing: 10–14 inches
• Seed Longevity: 3–5 years stored cool and dry

Planting Guide 

• Sowing Method: Direct sow after frost or start indoors.
• Seed Preparation: No soaking or treatment required.
• When to Plant:
• Indoors: 4–6 weeks before frost
• Outdoors: After frost when soil is fully warm
• Sowing Depth: Press into soil, cover lightly 1/8 inch.
• Germination Time: 5–10 days in warm soil.
• Light Requirements: Full sun for strong, leafy growth.
• Soil Conditions: Loose, well-drained soil enriched with organic material.
• Watering: Keep soil moist for seedlings; moderate watering afterward.
• Maintenance:
• Pinch tips to promote branching
• Remove flower spikes if leafy growth is desired
• Avoid overwatering, especially in pots