Sweet Basil ‘Purple Ruffles’
(Ocimum basilicum)

‘Purple Ruffles’ is both a culinary and ornamental basil featuring a strong sweet-basil flavor with a hint of anise and cinnamon. This striking variety was released in 1984 by breeder Ted Torrey and later became a 1987 All-America Selections winner for both flavor and appearance. The large leaves are a glossy, deep purple with a crinkled texture and jagged fringe. ‘Purple Ruffles’ is uniquely heat tolerant and slow to bolt, with pale pink flowers that provide dramatic contrast with the dark leaves late in the season. This dual-purpose herb is a beautiful addition to kitchen gardens, flower beds, and container gardens.