Over-fertilization should be avoided to protect basil's flavor. Pinch the terminal buds after planting to encourage branching. There are more than 35 species of annual and perennial basils in varying colors, flavors, and leaf sizes. Basil grows to a height of 1-3 feet. Many gardeners plant basil near tomatoes and peppers to enhance their growth.
All basils also act as fly repellents.
The dark purplish color in the leaves turns the vinegar pink. This variety of basil also makes a colorful addition to a flowerbed because of its deep colored foliage. Basil is used in Italian dishes, in pesto to serve over pasta, in light vinaigrettes over tomatoes and cucumbers, and herb butters. It also combines well with garlic and eggplant. Basil leaves need to be harvested every week and the leaves can be used fresh or dried.