Ocimum
Classification: Genus
Synonyms / homonyms: Angiosperms, Magnoliophyta
The Ocimum is a class / Genus of plants with similar qualities and features. In this case Ocimum refers to annual and perennial herbs and shrubs of the Lamiaceae family. Most commonly found in warm climates like the tropical regions of Africa, Thailand, India and South America.
We know this family by the commonly used name of Basil. The Basil family has over 63 species, some of the most common ones to us would be
Ocimum Basilicum - Sweet Basil
Ocimum Amercanum
Ocimum minimum - India & Sri Lanka
Ocimum tenuiflorum - Holy basil, tulsi - from China, India and Sth East Asia
Hybrids include
Ocimum x citriodorum - lemon basil
