Mr. McGregor's Farm Fresh Potted Opal Basil
Botanical Name: Ocimum basilicum
Common Name: Opal Basil and purple basil
Description: Opal basil has a beautiful deep purple leaf that is sure to attract instant attention. Opal basil is used similarly to green basil and in addition has a delightful basil fragrance. Their flowers are a stunning lavender color and edible as well.
Interesting Facts:
- Opal Basil was created in the 1950’s at the University of Connecticut.
- The pigment in the leaves also serves as a dye.
- The pretty purple shade also lends to it’s use in decorative gardens.
The following table provides the nutritional values for 2 tablespoons of raw chopped basil (5.3 grams) provided by the USDA National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference, Release 22 (2009):
| Carbohydrates | .14 g |
|---|---|
| Protein | .17 g |
| Iron | .17 g |
| Magnesium | 3 mg |
| Phosphorus | 3 mg |
| Potassium | 16 mg |
| Vitamin C | 1.0 mg |
| Choline | .6 mg |
