Can I Plant My Boxwood Basil in the House?

Characteristics

• Boxwood basil is an herb. Like other herbs, it has an aromatic scent and can be grown in a container or in the garden. Boxwood can grow up to 16 inches tall and can easily be shaped into a topiary because of its small leaves and tight structure. While it is often grown as garden edging or on a patio, boxwood can be grown indoors.

Indoor Growing

• Plant boxwood basil in containers. Any container will work, but be sure the container has a drainage hole. Keep the soil moist, but do not over water. Indoor herbs need lots of sunlight, so place your boxwood basil in a sunny location, such as a window sill, or under fluorescent lights. Your boxwood basil will grow in a compact mound, so as you trim it, you can shape it into a topiary.

Uses

• Boxwood basil can be used like any other basil in the kitchen. The aromatic leaves are good in salads, dressings and in meat marinades. Use boxwood basil in pesto dishes for a unique basil flavor. You can also use boxwood basil to flavor vinegars and oils, or add it to vegetable dips.

Growing Ideas

• Grow boxwood basil with other kinds of basil for an attractive and aromatic kitchen garden. Using a variety of interesting containers, such as colanders, teapots and coffee cups (with drainage holes added) can create visual interest in the kitchen. Group boxwood basil with other common kitchen herbs within easy reach for kitchen use.