Annual or Short Lived Perennial: Shiny deep purple leaves make this a striking ornamental plant in gardens or pots. It is also excellent in vinegars or as a garnish for your favorite meals. Flavor is strong and leaves can turn your mouth purple, so this variety may not be ideal for fresh eating. Bloom color: pale purple. Height: 8-10”. Exposure: sun/part shade. (Ocimum basilicum var purpurascens )