Ocimum basilicum
Sweet anise flavor compliments stir fries and curries.
When a sprig of Thai Basil lands on your taste buds, it's hard to sum up that flavor in one word. The herb is a mingling of sweet and spicy woven with anise and mint. But there's always something else, deeper in the flavor profile, that lends this basil its magic. It’s not surprising, then, that over the centuries basil has been associated with legends and deities. We are grateful that it is still with us today, like ancient Thai scrolls come to life, imparting its mythical flavor to our favorite stir fries and curries.
Though they are the same species, Thai basil and Italian basil have many differences. Thai basil is a more concentrated, spicy flavor, with smaller leaves on sturdy purple stems and a much more compact habit. The plants are highly ornamental, with deep purple flower buds that open in lavender. Widely adapted to a range growing conditions. Grows well in containers too.
The Package
Each year, Hudson Valley Seeds commissions contemporary artists from around the United States to tell the story of a particular seed variety. That art and those seeds combine to create an Art Pack, a unique celebration of the diverse stories of seeds and their stewards.
The Artist
Skowmon Hastanan born in Thailand, lives and works in NYC since 1973, received her BFA from School of Visual Arts. Hastanan exhibited her works at various venues across the country. She is a recipient of commissions from MTA Arts for Transit, Asian Arts Initiative-s with funding by The Pew Charitable Trusts and Pennsylvania Humanities Council, NYC Percent for Art, and many fellowships. Skowmon Hastanan chose to use traditional Thai Kinnaree- a type of mythical being- to interact with this myth-worthy herb.
