Anise Basil – Licorice: aromatic basil with a liquorice note
Licorice Basil, or Anise Basil, is an exciting, exotic basil with a distinct liquorice scent. These seeds are an excellent choice if you want to grow basil with an unusual flavour profile.
What makes Anise Basil – Licorice special
The leaves are green with violet veins and stems. The flavour is spicy and sweet, reminiscent of aniseed or liquorice, and very distinctive.
Background and name
This variety is used in both Asian and Middle Eastern-inspired dishes. It is a close relative of Thai basil.
Appearance and growth habit
The plant is medium-tall and sturdy. It produces pretty flowers and fragrant leaves throughout the summer.
Flavour and uses of Licorice
The flavour is spicy and sweet with a clear liquorice note: unexpected, but very useful in the right combinations.
Ways to use Licorice
It suits stir-fries, curries, fish, herbal tea or flavoured ice cream. It is also good in fruit salad or as the base of an exotic pesto.
Growing tips for Licorice
Start the plants early indoors and plant out once the temperature is stable. They need sun, warmth and shelter. Harvest regularly for dense growth.
Want to grow basil with a flavour that surprises? Licorice is a liquorice-scented favourite, grown from basil seeds you sow yourself.
