Basil is an annual herb, seemingly indispensable in the kitchen. And there are several species and varieties of basil, and so it seems to appear in nearly every cuisine. Leaf size and color are determined by variety; and being in the mint family, they all have stems with whorls of bracts and flowers that appear late summer.
Grow in soils that have been enriched with compost and are well draining. Prefers full sun, though they will tolerate a bit of shade. Deadheading will maintain leaf production, though the flowers are greatly loved by bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.