Plantings BASIL

The delicious heat-loving herb is a no-brainer in the summer garden. This vear, plant several types so you can sample its range of flavors

- MARTY ROSS

1 'PESTO PERPETUO'

Variegated leaves are pretty in both gardens and salads.

2 'AMETHYST'

This is the purple form of classic Genovese Italian basil, with large, dark leaves.

3 'MRS. BURNS' LEMON BASIL'

Tastes and smells lightly of citrus; add the leafy stems to summer bouquets.

4 'TUSCANY'

Big, puckered leaves grow 3-5 inches long and have a mild flavor with a hint of anise.

5 'AROMATTO'

Tall plants have purple stems and dark purple flowers with a spicy cinnamon scent; great for garnishes.

6 'SPICY GLOBE'

Plants covered with tiny leaves form an 8-inch ball;  compact enough for a window box or a pot.

7 'HOLY GREEN'

Also known as tulsi, its green leaves on purple stems have a pungent clove fragrance.

8 'PURPLE BALL'

Mounded plants, about 12 inches wide and tall, are covered with petite, plum-purple leaves.