Basil ‘Mrs. Burns’ Lemon’ Seeds

Basil ‘Mrs. Burns’ Lemon’ (Ocimum basilicum var. citriodorum), widely acclaimed as the absolute finest lemon basil variety in existence. Native to New Mexico and preserved as an heirloom staple, this standout variety produces large, bright-green, pointed leaves packed with an intensely fragrant, sharp citrus punch that outshines standard sweet basils.

Unlike small-leafed lemon basils, 'Mrs. Burns' grows vigorously into a sturdy, branching bush yielding abundant, harvestable foliage all summer long. Its intoxicating citrus profile elevates seafood dishes, stir-fries, herbal teas, salad dressings, pestos, cocktails, and fruit desserts. As the summer peaks, the plant develops delicate lavender-pink flower spikes that attract bees and native pollinators, making it an essential companion plant for tomatoes and garden beds alike.

Features:

• Unmatched Citrus Aroma: Packed with high concentrations of essential oils for a powerful, authentic lemon scent and flavor.

• Large, Tender Foliage: Yields bigger, more substantial leaves than other lemon basil varieties for easy kitchen prep.

• Heavy Yielding & Vigorous: Rapidly grows into a robust bush that recovers quickly after regular harvests.

• Pollinator Magnet: Delicate lavender-pink flower spikes provide valuable nectar for beneficial bees and butterflies.

• Companion Planting Star: Thrives alongside tomatoes, peppers, and garden veggies while naturally deterring garden pests.

Growing Information (Australia):

• Scientific Name: Ocimum basilicum var. citriodorum 'Mrs. Burns'

• Plant Type: Tender Annual

• Sowing Season:

  • Temperate/Cool (e.g., Victoria, Tasmania): Spring to Early Summer (indoors with warmth, or directly outdoors strictly after all frost danger has passed).

  • Subtropical: Late Winter to Late Summer.

  • Tropical: Year-round (best sown in Autumn through Spring to avoid heavy mid-summer rains).

• Sun Position: Full Sun (requires 6+ hours of direct sunlight daily; shelter from harsh afternoon heat in warm climates).

• Sowing Depth: 0.5cm deep (cover lightly with fine soil; requires light and warmth for best results).

• Plant Spacing: 25–30cm apart between plants.

• Plant Height: 45–60cm tall.

• Germination Temp: 20°C–25°C.

• Germination Time: 7–14 days.

• Seed to Bloom/Harvest Time: 60–75 days (begin harvesting individual leaves as soon as the plant reaches 15cm tall).

• Gardener’s Tip: Pinch out the central growing tip when seedlings are about 15cm high to encourage a bushy, multi-branched habit. Harvest leaves regularly from the top down. Pinch off any emerging flower buds early to prolong leaf production and keep the citrus flavour sweet and tender.

Sorry we can not send seeds to W.A

100 seeds