🌿 Growing ‘Lime Basil’ From Seed — But It Might Not Be Lime Basil After All
I purchased a packet of basil seeds labeled “Lime Basil” (written as ‘Ra-lim’ in Korean).
However, after growing the plant for several months, I realized that the leaves, aroma, and growth pattern didn’t match typical Lime Basil characteristics.
Instead, this plant grew more like a regular Sweet Basil–type variety, even though it was sold as Lime Basil.
Here is the full growth record from seed to flowering, along with my observations.
1. Seed Packet Purchased in Korea
The seed packet clearly stated “Lime Basil,”
even though the variety name seemed unusual and slightly mistranslated.
2. Basil Seeds Close-Up
The seeds looked identical to typical basil seeds—small, dark, oval-shaped.
Nothing hinted at a unique lime-scented variety.
3. Cotyledon Stage — First Basil Sprout
The first leaves were round, soft, and bright green, just like regular basil seedlings.
4. First True Leaves — Cute, Compact Growth
The true leaves emerged smoothly.
At this point, I expected sharper leaf edges since Lime Basil usually has:
- Narrow leaves
- Pointed tips
- A noticeable lime fragrance
But the plant looked different.
5. Growing True Leaves — Sweet Basil Shape
As the plant matured, the leaves became broader and smoother, exactly like Sweet Basil. The scent was mild and did not resemble lime or citrus basil at all.
This is when I suspected the labeling might be incorrect.
6. Pruning and Regrowing (February)
After pruning, the plant responded well and produced fuller side growth.
Still, the leaf shape remained rounder and softer than Lime Basil.
7. March Growth — Stronger, Fuller Plant
By March, the basil grew vigorously, forming dense foliage.
Again, it looked identical to Sweet Basil varieties.
8. April Growth — Even Larger Leaves
The leaves enlarged significantly in April.
Lime Basil rarely grows this leaf shape or size.
9. Flower Spike in May
In May, the plant produced a flower spike.
The flower structure also resembled Sweet Basil, not Lime Basil.
🌿 So… Is This Really Lime Basil? My Conclusion
Based on:
- Leaf shape
- Known Lime Basil traits
It’s very likely that this was not a true Lime Basil variety,
but rather a mislabeling or a general Sweet Basil type sold under a different name.
This happens often in mass-market seed packets.
Still, the plant grew beautifully indoors and responded well to LED grow lights and regular pruning.
If you genuinely want real Lime Basil, consider purchasing from reputable herb seed brands or international sellers.
📌 Related Posts (Basil Series)
- Cinnamon Basil (True cinnamon scent)
- Red Ruffle Basil (Dark red ruffled leaves)
- Thai Basil (Sharp, pointed leaves with anise scent)
