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African Basil
Plant of the day

Ocimum gratissimum

African BasilShrub

Ocimum gratissimum, also known as clove basil, African basil, and in Hawaii as wild basil, is a species of basil. It is native to Africa, Madagascar, southern Asia, and the Bismarck Archipelago, and naturalized in Polynesia, Hawaii, Mexico, Panama, West Indies, Brazil, and Bolivia.

FamilyLamiaceae
GenusOcimum
NativeCentral Africa
LifespanPerennial; typically 3–7 years under tropical field conditions

Pests & Diseases Guide

Identify problems early and take the right action to keep your Hibiscus healthy.

Prevention is the best care: keep plants healthy, inspect leaves, and maintain airflow.

Common Pests

Aphids

Pest

Small green or black insects on new growth.

Whiteflies

Pest

Tiny white insects under leaves.

Spider Mites

Pest

Fine webs and stippling on leaves.

Mealybugs

Pest

Cottony white insects on stems.

Thrips

Pest

Tiny slender insects that deform leaves.

Common Diseases

Leaf Spot

Disease

Fungal spots on leaves that spread in humidity.

Powdery Mildew

Disease

White powdery fungal growth on leaves.

Root Rot

Disease

Caused by overwatering or poor drainage.

Rust

Disease

Orange or brown pustules on leaves.

Bud Drop

Disease

Stress or infection can cause buds to drop.

TipObserve your plant regularly and adjust care according to your local climate and conditions.