Purple Gems!

For the past thirty years or so, a lovely plant has been reseeding itself in my gardens.  Even when Hurricane Katrina came through and took just about my entire yard to another destination, the seeds must have somehow endured.  The following springtime saw tiny purple leaves breaking through our new beach..better known as the sand deposited by the hurricane.  Through all odds..sand, salt, flood waters..the tiny seedlings flourished and soon I could look through the remaining debris piles and see a bit of loveliness.  The Opal Basil was thriving despite of all the obstacles in its way!  It was amazing how one small plant could bring so much hope of restoration.

Now, the Opal Basil or "Purple Leaf Basil" has made such a comeback that the gardens are full of the volunteer plants.  There are so many that a few were sacrificed to make room for the squash and peppers.  This did not seem to daunt the seeds in any way as now, I can hardly find my Bell Pepper plants between the basils!  I do not mind, though, as I love the distinct clove-like aroma that fills the air whenever I walk through the garden.

I must admit, though, that I much prefer this basil as a showpiece and not as a culinary spice.  It is not terrible tasting but just a bit bland for my taste.  It, also, has a tendency to turn a bit black when heated making for some rather ugly dishes!  Black food is not particularly appetizing if you ask me..why, I am not even a huge fan of black licorice! (Although, I adore anise with its licorice-like flavor!..Strange...)  The Opal Basil will stay as a decorative plant in the garden..one with the added benefits of being highly aromatic and, of course, edible.  All summer long, I will delight in its purple beauty and then in late fall, the butterflies, hummingbirds and I will enjoy the small pinkish-purple flower stalks!  This hardy plant is a mainstay of the garden!