Lemon basil (Ocimum citriodorum) is an aromatic annual herb in the mint family, prized for its leaves that carry a distinct lemony-citrus fragrance layered over the familiar basil scent. It forms a compact, bushy plant 30-50 cm tall with slender, pale-green leaves and slim spikes of small white flowers in the warm season.
Well suited to India's tropical and subtropical climate, it thrives in full sun and warm temperatures and is easily grown in garden beds, balcony pots, and grow bags. It is widely used in cooking, herbal teas, and as a fragrant, mosquito-deterring patio plant.
Specifications
| Family |
Lamiaceae |
| Native region |
Hybrid of African and Asian basils (Ocimum basilicum x Ocimum americanum) |
| Mature height |
30-50 cm |
| Mature spread |
25-35 cm |
| Growth rate |
Fast |
| Foliage |
Narrow, light-green, lemon-scented leaves |
| Flower colour |
White |
| Flower season |
Summer to early autumn |
| Climate zone |
Tropical and subtropical; frost-sensitive |
Care guide
| Sunlight |
Full sun, at least 6 hours of direct light daily; tolerates light afternoon shade in very hot regions. |
| Watering |
Keep soil evenly moist but never waterlogged; water when the top 2-3 cm feels dry, more often in summer and in pots. |
| Soil / mix |
Light, well-drained loam rich in organic matter; slightly acidic to neutral pH 6.0-7.5. |
| Temperature |
Grows best at 20-35 C; growth stalls below 12 C and the plant is killed by frost. |
| Humidity |
Moderate humidity preferred; ensure good airflow to avoid fungal leaf spots. |
| Fertilizer |
Feed lightly every 3-4 weeks with a balanced or nitrogen-rich organic feed such as diluted vermicompost tea. |
| Pruning |
Pinch growing tips regularly and remove flower spikes early to keep the plant bushy and leaves tender. |
| Repotting |
Usually grown as a single-season annual; if potted, a 20-25 cm container with fresh mix is enough for its life cycle. |
| Propagation |
From seed sown in warm weather, or from soft stem cuttings rooted in water or moist soil. |
| Pests & problems |
Watch for aphids, whiteflies and spider mites; fusarium wilt and fungal leaf spot in damp, crowded conditions. |
| Toxicity / safety |
Non-toxic to humans and a common culinary herb; generally considered safe and non-toxic around pets. |
| Difficulty |
Easy |
Uses
- Fresh leaves flavour salads, soups, seafood, stir-fries and Southeast Asian dishes with a citrus-basil note.
- Used to brew refreshing herbal and iced teas and to infuse cold drinks and lemonades.
- Grown on balconies and patios as a fragrant plant that helps deter mosquitoes and flies.
- Leaves can be dried or made into pesto, vinegars and flavoured oils.
Growing tips
In most of India, sow seeds after the cold spell, from February-March onward, and again through the monsoon and post-monsoon months for a near year-round supply; avoid sowing in peak winter where frost occurs.
Give it the sunniest spot you have, water more frequently during summer heat and in pots, and pinch off the tips and flower buds often to keep leaves soft and the plant productive. In heavy monsoon, improve drainage and spacing to prevent fungal problems.
