Red Rubin Basil

The Basil Lemon, 'Ocimum basilicum citriodorum', has a strong lemon fragrance that makes this basil excellent for vinegars, salad dressing, fish dishes, and salads. There is no more useful herb. It is a good all "around basil" and it has very few pests. The Lemon Basil has pointed 2 inch, dull green leaves. Plant 1 to 2 weeks after the last average frost date. Place the Basil seeds in well drained soil with lots of organic matter.

The Basil Red Rubin, 'Ocimum basilicum "Purpurascens', has rich, dark purple leaves that are an exciting contrast in salads, pasta dishes, vinegar, and as an ornamental in the garden. Red Rubin Basil is an improved Dark Opal Basil, a 1992 All America Selections Winner. Red Rubin is much more uniform in color than other purple basils. Plant 1 to 2 weeks after the last average frost date. Place the Basil seeds in well drained soil with lots of organic matter.

The Marjoram Sweet, 'Origanum majorana', has a sweeter, milder flavor than Oregano. It is wonderful when used fresh in many dishes. Some describe the flavor as having a hint of balsam. Try substituting Sweet Marjoram for Oregano in many popular dishes such as eggplant, Parmesan, or pizza. The plants are bushy, 1 to 2 foot tall and 2 foot wide. Plant in the spring in well drained soil. Legend has it that if you touch Sweet Marjoram before bedtime, you will dream of your future spouse.