Fauna
Plant

Holy Basil

Ocimum tenuiflorum

Also known as Tulsi, Tulasi, Sacred Basil

Holy basil stems branch profusely, bearing lightly hairy green or purplish leaves that release a sharp, clove-and-anise fragrance when brushed. Small purple or white flowers cluster along erect terminal spikes, drawing bees and small butterflies throughout the warm months. Deeply rooted in South Asian culture and traditional medicine, this adaptable herb thrives in disturbed tropical soils and sun-drenched gardens worldwide.

AromaticMedicinalFlowering
Holy Basil reference1 / 7
(c) Swarochi Tathagath, some rights reserved (CC BY) · cc-by
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Not EvaluatedConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXNot Evaluated — not placed on the risk ladderRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & preyAutotrophic (Photosynthetic)
Predators
  • Aphids
  • Spider Mites
  • Snails
ThreatsHabitat loss in native range, though globally secure due to widespread cultivation
HabitatsTropical forests, disturbed areas, cultivated gardens, agricultural fields
Life span1–3 years (perennial in tropics, annual in temperate regions)
Classification
  1. OrderLamiales
  2. FamilyLamiaceae
  3. GenusOcimum
  4. SpeciesOcimum tenuiflorum
Range & activity
Range data is not available yet.
Safe observation
Interaction riskLow
  1. Low
  2. Moderate
  3. High
  4. Very high
Why interaction risk is low
Safe to observe at a normal distance.
Responsible observation
  • Identifying scent: Gently brush the leaves to release its distinct clove-like aroma.
  • Spotting flowers: Look for purplish or white blossoms held on erect terminal spikes.
Related species
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