Cinnamon Basil

Growth Requirements:

• Light: Requires 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Soil: Prefers well-draining, moderately rich soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0. Amending the soil with compost or well-rotted manure can improve growth​
• Watering: Needs regular watering to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot​.
• Temperature: Thrives in warm temperatures, ideally between 80-90°F (27-32°C). It is frost-sensitive and best grown as an annual in most climates.
• Humidity: Requires good airflow to prevent fungal diseases, especially in humid conditions​.

Cultivation:

• Starting Seeds: Germinate best when soil temperatures are 75-85°F and take about 10-14 days to sprout.
• Spacing: Plant seeds or transplants about 12 inches apart to ensure adequate air circulation and growth space.
• Fertilizing: A light application of a balanced fertilizer is recommended, but over-fertilization can reduce the flavor intensity of the leaves​.

Companion Planting:

Cinnamon basil is an excellent companion plant, known for deterring pests like aphids, thrips, and whiteflies while attracting beneficial pollinators such as bees and butterflies. It pairs well with tomatoes, peppers, carrots, and other herbs like cilantro and marjoram​

Harvesting:

• Harvest when the plant reaches at least 6 inches tall, and continue to harvest throughout the growing season by pinching off the top leaves to encourage bushier growth​.
• Best harvested in the early morning to prevent wilting and ensure the best flavor​.

Uses:

• Culinary: Its sweet-spicy flavor is ideal for teas, desserts, fruit salads, and as a garnish. It can also be used in savory dishes, meat marinades, and as a unique addition to sauces and salsas​.
• Medicinal: Traditionally used to treat digestive issues, inflammation, and stress. It is rich in vitamins A, C, K, and minerals like magnesium and potassium​
• Ornamental and Craft: The striking foliage and flowers make it an attractive addition to gardens and floral arrangements. Dried leaves and flowers retain their fragrance.

Storage:

• Short-term: Store fresh leaves in a jar of water in the refrigerator, changing the water daily.
• Long-term: Wash and dry leaves, then freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to freezer bags​.