'Iraqi Reehan' Basil

Ocimum basilicum Origin: Iraq Improvement status: Cultivar Seeds per packet: ~50 Germination tested 12/2024: 92% Life cycle: Annual Through our association with the wonderful Truelove Seeds in Philadelphia, we were introduced to a new seed-saving project called the Iraqi Seed Collective. Begun by a small group of Iraqi-Americans interested in preserving the plant varieties of their ancestral homeland, we knew this was a project we wanted to support. Nate volunteered to grow out some seeds for them, and this gorgeous basil was what they sent (along with a coriander that didn't fare as well). The plants somewhat resemble Thai basil or tulsi, and it has a strong basil flavor with some notes of anise. The fragrance that wafts around after brushing past the plants made Nate go out of his way all season to just walk along the row.  This basil was originally collected in Baghdad's Sadr City at a local market called Al-Mustafa Market. It is traditionally included in a plate full of fresh herbs