Dark Opal is a historic purple-leaved basil developed at the University of Connecticut and an All-America Selections winner in 1962, one of the first ornamental basils bred in the United States. It features deep purple-black glossy leaves that provide vivid color contrast in herb and ornamental gardens and lend a striking hue to vinegars, oils, and garnishes. Dark Opal has a classic sweet basil flavor with a slightly spicy note. It is an open-pollinated variety, though seed-grown plants can show some variation in leaf color and occasional green reversion. Valued for both its culinary use and its ornamental foliage, Dark Opal helped popularize purple basils and remains a garden classic.
Flavor Profile
Classic sweet basil flavor with a mild spicy note.
Visual Characteristics
Deep purple-black glossy leaves on plants reaching 14-20 inches with lavender-pink flowers.
Growing Tips
Provides bold color in the garden and in vinegars; grow in full sun and rogue out any green-reverting seedlings.
Resistance Information
Disease Resistance
Susceptible to downy mildew
Where to Buy
Sourcing information coming soon. Check local nurseries and seed banks for availability.