Cinnamon Basil
Table of Contents
Introducing Cinnamon Basil
Cinnamon Basil has a cinnamon twist on one of our favorite garden herbs. The light cinnamon and anise flavor adds the perfect touch to fruit salads, desserts, and savory preparations. The leaves also make a soothing cup of tea which I make often. Cinnamon basil contains many vitamins and minerals. It also attracts a wide range of pollinators with its elegant purple blooms.
History of Cinnamon Basil
Cinnamon basil is believed to have originated in Mexico, and indeed there are many recipes and uses for this piquant basil in Mexican cuisine.
Mexican Cinnamon Basil (Ocimum basilicum ‘Cinnamon’) is an aromatic culinary and ornamental herb native to Mexico where it is called albahaca. This unique basil variety features dark green leaves with a reddish-purple hue and delicate, purple-pink flowers.
Also known as Mexican spice basil due to its distinctive cinnamon taste and spicy aroma, is frequently consumed as an ingredient in infusions and baked goods but also in raw dishes, fruit salads and jellies or as an alternative to ground cinnamon.
The plant’s beautiful foliage and flowers make it a popular garnish, adding visual appeal and aroma to the plate. In addition to its culinary applications, Mexican Cinnamon Basil is appreciated for its ornamental value in gardens, borders, or container arrangements, attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
My pollinator-friendly garden always has cinnamon basil gracing the landscape.
Plant Profile
| Type | “Cinnamon” |
| Maturity | 65-70 Days |
| Light Requirements | Full Sun |
| Seeds Sprout | 6-10 Days |
| Ideal Temperature | 70-85 Degrees F / 21-29 Degrees C |
| Seed Depth | 1/4 in / .63 cm |
| Plant Spacing | 8-12 in / 20-30 cm |
| Frost Hardy | No |
| Latin Name | Ocimum basilicum |
Basil Resources
- The Art of Growing Basil: A Beginner Herb Gardeners Guide
- The Art of Herbal Tea Gardening: Taste Joy
- A Guide to Edible Gardening
Thank you for meeting me AT FORESTS EDGE. Where I grow food for my family and share my insights with you. I would love for you to join me on this journey, and subscribe to my newsletter where I share encouragement throughout the year as we GROW HOPE!
Until we meet again,
Raeanna
Raeanna
Raeanna loves her home AT FORESTS EDGE. Cultivating life with a big family in America. She is a Watercolor Artist, Writer, Gardener & a Certified Herbalist.
