Tulsi - Family of Basil

Tulsi is one of roughly 60 species of the genus Ocimum, the basil genus. Within the Tulsi family, there are several kinds grown in India. Most varieties are native to India, including the foothills of the Himalayas; they are also found throughout the Middle East. Tulsi is grown as an annual herb in temperate climates that may grow to a height of three feet. The root grows as a branched taproot. The stem has a square or quadrangular shape characteristic to Lamiaceae plants, and is branched, green to red in color with a fine layer of pubescence. The leaves are opposite, simple, ovate, serrate and petiolate. The flowers grow in a verticillaster inflorescence and are complete with a blue to purple color.

Varities

The Climatic conditions of the area and soil type play a critical role in the flavor profile of the varities. There are three types of tulsi mentioned in ayurvedic texts - Rama (Green Leaf) Tulsi, Shyama or Krishna (Purple Leaf) Tulsi and Vana (wild Leaf) Tulsi. Although, all three types of Tulsi have their uses in ayurveda, the Rama and Krishna are the most widely used. We work with all three types of Tulsi.

Purple Leaf Tulsi

Also known as 'Krishna or Shyama Tulsi', the Purple leaf tulsi is famous for its peppery, crisp taste. It comprises purple colored leaves and dark stems. Although, it is grown in many regions in India, it is relatively more difficult to find than the green vaiietals. Purple leaf Tulsi is known to be beneficial to treat throat infections, respirtory system, nasal lesions, earache and skin diseases.

Green Leaf Tulsi

Also known as 'Rama Tulsi', the Green Leaf Tulsi is known for its cooling, mellower taste. his variety of Tulsi is found in China, Brazil, Eastern Nepal, as well as in Bengal, Bihar, Chatgaon and the southern states of India. All the parts of the plant emit a strong aroma. Ram Tulsi has a characteristic fragrance. Crushing its leaves between the palms releases a stronger fragrance than other varieties of Tulsi.

Wild Type 'Vana' Tulsi

Vana Tulsi is found in the Himalayas as well as the plains of India, where it grows as naturalized plant. Vana Tulsi is also cultivated and grows wild throughout Asia and Africa.

Cultivation of Tulsi from seed

Tulsi seed is easy to germinate and grow. Sow the small Tulsi seeds in early spring indoors or in the greenhouse for an early start, or sow Tulsi seed directly in the spring or summer garden. Sow Tulsi seeds just under the surface of the soil and press in firmly. Keep Tulsi seed watered and warm until germination, which occurs within 1 to 2 weeks. Tulsi prefers full sun, rich soil, and plenty of water. Thin or transplant to 1 to 2 feet apart. Tulsi does well in pots or window boxes, and is traditionally grown for good luck near the front door of the house.