0,5 gr
Sowing: february to april
Planting space: 50 cm between plants 80 cm between rows
Harvest: 50 days after sowing
Alvaaka Yoeme Basil (Ocimum basilicum)
Alvaaka Yoeme Basil (Ocimum basilicum): one of the rare basils of the Pueblo ethnic groups, in this case the Yaqui. The "path" basil took to reach these populations is unknown, and it cannot be said for certain that it isn't pre-Columbian. In fact, although the plant is classified as O. basilicum, it has many characteristics that would make it closer to thyrsiflora, the basil of Southeast Asia. We've already seen Asian influences, such as the stills used in the production of Mezcal, originating from the Philippines, but since they too were a Spanish colony... we're not sure. Etymology can help: in the Yoem Noki language, of Aztec origin, basil is called Alvaaka from albahaca, the Spanish term, which in turn derives from the Arabic al-ḥabaq. Essentially, it wasn't present before the arrival of the Spanish, as the term doesn't appear before them.
The plant is small, not exceeding 60 cm in height, it has a compact bush-like shape, and the leaves are fleshy, with balsamic, aniseed, and licorice notes, but less sweet and complex than the Asian varieties, let's say a cross between Asia and Europe.
It can be in full sun without any problems; I believe it, along with Mayo, is the basil with the least watering requirements. Perfect for pots. It's grown more for herbal medicine than for culinary use, where it still finds its place. A very rare basil, its aromas also tell a story.