Bush Basil Or Five Spices Plant

Bush Basil / Five Spice Plant

(Ocimum tenuiflorum / Ocimum basilicum var.)

Introduction

Bush Basil, commonly known as the Five Spice Plant, is a fragrant, fast-growing herb prized for its bold aroma and culinary versatility. Popular in Asian, Indian, and Southeast Asian cuisines, this hardy basil variety has adapted exceptionally well to Australian conditions, especially in warm coastal and Mediterranean climates like Western Australia.

The plant earns its name “Five Spice” due to its complex flavour profile, often described as a blend of clove, anise, cinnamon, pepper, and mint.

How Bush Basil Came to Australia

Bush Basil originated in South and Southeast Asia, where it has been cultivated for centuries for both culinary and medicinal purposes. It was introduced to Australia through early trade routes and migration, particularly by Asian and Indian communities. Over time, it became a popular garden herb due to its heat tolerance, resilience, and strong flavour, making it well suited to Australian home gardens.

Key Features

• 🌿 Compact, bushy perennial herb
• 🌸 Produces small white to pale purple flowers
• 🌞 Excellent heat and drought tolerance once established
• 🐝 Attracts bees and beneficial insects
• 🌱 Strongly aromatic leaves with spicy undertones

Growing Conditions (Australia)

Bush Basil is easy to grow and ideal for Perth and coastal WA gardens.

Position:

• Full sun to part shade

Soil:

• Well-drained soil
• Enriched with compost or organic matter

Water:

• Moderate watering
• Allow soil to dry slightly between watering

Climate:

• Thrives in warm, frost-free areas
• Can be grown as an annual in cooler regions

Containers:

• Excellent for pots, raised beds, and herb gardens

Culinary Uses

Bush Basil is widely used in Asian, Thai, Vietnamese, and Indian cooking.

Popular uses include:

• Stir-fries and curries
• Soups and noodle dishes
• Herbal teas
• Infused oils and sauces

The leaves can be used fresh or dried, retaining much of their aromatic intensity.

Importance & Benefits

• Adds depth and complexity to cooking
• Natural pest deterrent in gardens
• Traditionally used in herbal remedies
• Enhances biodiversity by attracting pollinators

Plant Care & Maintenance

✔ Regular pruning encourages bushy growth

✔ Pinch off flowers to extend leaf production

✔ Feed monthly with organic liquid fertiliser

✔ Protect from frost in winter

Why Buy from Bibra Lake Nursery?

At Bibra Lake Nursery, we stock healthy, locally grown Bush Basil plants suited to WA conditions. Our plants are hardened for outdoor growing and perfect for home gardeners, chefs, and herb enthusiasts.