Basil
Ocimum basilicum
Last reviewed: August 2026
Basil (Ocimum basilicum) is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs or cats (aspca.org (opens in new tab), last reviewed 2026-08-15). If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
12"–24" H × 12"–18" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native alternatives to Basil
Basil is not native to the United States. These natives fill a similar role in a planting, matched on bloom season, bloom color and mature size.
Before you buy
Your city may pay you to plant this
Cities and water utilities offer rebates for replacing lawn with native and water-wise plants. We track 446 programs across 44 states, each with a link to the provider and the date we last checked it.
Find rebates in your areaA tender annual herb with aromatic leaves, grown for continuous harvest through the warm season. Pinching the tips prevents flowering and keeps leaf production going. It collapses at the first frost.
In an HOA neighborhood
Basil is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation bed, border.
Wildlife value
Grown as an ornamental. Non-native plants support far fewer local insects than a native of similar size, so treat this as garden interest rather than habitat.
Common questions
- How much sun does Basil need?
- Basil grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Basil bloom?
- Basil blooms in June, July, and August.
- Is Basil toxic to dogs?
- Basil is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs (aspca.org).
- Is Basil toxic to cats?
- Basil is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for cats (aspca.org).
- Is Basil HOA-friendly?
- Basil is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with moderate maintenance.
Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Basil? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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