And the flavor of this herb is a perfect complement to many of summer's finest garden offerings. A Belgian old wives' tale of the 16th century told that basil leaves crushed between two bricks would turn into scorpions. Medicinally, it may be used as a mild sedative and to relieve stomach pains. According to its type, a basil plant can have either a multitude of tiny leaves or ones up to four inches long and almost half as wide that are glossy and smooth. Highly aromatic, when crushed they smell a bit like cloves.
Plants can reach a height of two feet.
Fresh basil can be found along with other herbs in the produce section of the supermarket. Even better are the local farmers' markets, where you not only save money, but you also support our area's growers. Or, you can grow this sun-loving plant right in your own kitchen window. It requires just a little TLC and in return, you can just snip off a few leaves whenever you need them. With adequate heat, a plant can stay in leaf indoors right through to mid-winter.