Purple Ruffles Basil (Ocimum basilicum ‘Purple Ruffles’)

Purple Ruffles Basil (Ocimum basilicum ‘Purple Ruffles’) is an award-winning ornamental herb prized for its dramatic deeply ruffled purple foliage, fragrant leaves, and versatile culinary uses. This unique basil variety combines exceptional garden beauty with the classic sweet basil flavour, making it a favourite for herb gardens, patio containers, and edible landscapes.

The large crinkled leaves feature rich burgundy-purple colouring and a distinctive frilled texture that creates striking contrast in garden beds and mixed planters. The aromatic foliage can be harvested throughout the season for salads, pesto, infused oils, vinegars, garnishes, and other culinary creations. During summer, attractive flower spikes emerge above the foliage and attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators.

Purple Ruffles Basil is valued for both its ornamental appeal and productive growth. Its upright, bushy habit makes it an excellent choice for decorative herb gardens, raised beds, and patio containers where its vibrant foliage provides season-long colour and texture.

In Alberta, Purple Ruffles Basil performs best in full sun with fertile, well-drained soil and consistent moisture. Regular harvesting encourages fuller growth and helps maintain a continuous supply of fresh aromatic leaves.