Ocimum basilicum 'Boxwood' forms a tight, rounded mound of densely packed, small leaves that are loaded with the same flavor as a larger Basil. The compact growth habit makes this the perfect choice for growing in pots on patios or in windowsills.
Introduced in 2008, boxwood basil (Ocimum basilicum "Boxwood") is actually a variety of sweet basil (Ocimum basilicum). Although sweet basil may sometimes be referred to as Ocimum basilicum "Sweet," the Herb Society of America says this is a catchall term for many basils with a balanced fragrance of cinnamon, clove and anise. More than 60 species exist for the herb, popular throughout the world. The new boxwood variety resembles the boxwoods of hedges and formal gardens more than it does the traditional basil growing among the tomatoes. Its leaves are tinier than those of other sweet basils, and the plant has a rounded, upright structure.