Few herbs combine ornamental beauty, rich aroma, and garden resilience like cinnamon basil (Ocimum basilicum ‘Cinnamon’). Interestingly, the term “cinnamon basil” has been used to describe several basil types — sometimes even Thai basil (O. basilicum var. thyrsiflora) — but in this guide, we’re focusing on the distinct cultivar Ocimum basilicum ‘Cinnamon’.

With its warm, spicy scent and visually striking purple stems, it’s one of my favorite cultivars to grow both inside and out. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore how to successfully cultivate cinnamon basil using proven horticultural techniques, scientific data, and hands-on tips.

What Is Cinnamon Basil?

Cinnamon basil is a cultivar of Ocimum basilicum distinguished by its narrow, serrated leaves and reddish-purple stems. It contains high levels of methyl cinnamate, the compound that gives it its signature spicy-sweet aroma — making it perfect for teas, chutneys, and savory dishes.

Compared to sweet basil or Thai basil, this variety is especially prized for its ornamental flair and slightly woodsy flavor.

Key Attributes

  • Botanical name: Ocimum basilicum ‘Cinnamon’
  • Aroma profile: Cinnamon-spice from methyl cinnamate
  • Growth habit: Upright, with narrow leaves and purple stems

Why Choose Cinnamon Basil?

Aside from flavor, cinnamon basil offers several garden and wellness benefits:

  • Culinary uses: Works well in both sweet and savory recipes
  • Health properties: Known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity (source)
  • Pollinator attraction: Loved by bees and butterflies
  • Garden design: Aesthetic appeal due to red stems and compact growth
💡 Fun fact: Phytochemical profiling has identified 59 unique compounds in cinnamon basil, emphasizing its rich medicinal and nutritional potential (source).

Growing Requirements for Cinnamon Basil

Ideal Temperature & Light

Cinnamon basil thrives in 18–30°C (65–86°F) with a minimum of 6 hours of full sun daily. For indoor growers, aim for a PAR light intensity of 200–400 μmol/m²/s.

According to research, light intensities above 300 μmol/m²/s may trigger stress, so strike a balance between growth speed and photoprotection (source).

Related: Does Basil Need Full Sun?

Soil Preferences

  • pH:2–7.0
  • Ideal mix: Sandy loam + 20–30% perlite
  • Drainage: Excellent — cinnamon basil hates soggy feet

More: Basil Soil Requirements

Pot or Bed Requirements

  • Minimum depth: 6–8 inches
  • Container type: Terracotta or breathable fabric pots
  • Placement: South-facing window, grow tent, or raised bed

Tool Tip: What Size Pot for Indoor Basil?

How to Start Cinnamon Basil from Seeds (Complete Growing Guide)

Grab your seeds and follow these quick steps from this infographic to grow your own fragrant cinnamon basil!

how to start cinnamon basil from seeds_infographic

A simple 4-step guide to growing cinnamon basil from seed—perfect for beginners!

Want more details? Keep reading this step-by-step guide for a deeper look at starting cinnamon basil from seed!

Step 1 – Sowing Cinnamon Basil Seeds

  • Timing: Start indoors 6 weeks before your last frost date
  • Depth: ¼ inch deep
  • Germination rate: 80–90% with warm, consistent moisture

Starter Tip: How to Germinate Basil Seeds in Paper Towel

Step 2 – Germination Environment

  • Temperature: Keep soil between 21–27°C (70–80°F)
  • Humidity: Cover with a humidity dome or clear bag
  • Light: Provide indirect light until sprouting, then shift to 12–16 hrs of light daily

Step 3 – Thinning and Transplanting

  • Thinning: Wait for the first true leaves (not the round cotyledons), then snip weaker seedlings
  • Transplanting: Once seedlings have 2–3 true leaves and roots begin to circle the cell base

Further Reading: How to Grow Basil from Seeds in Soil

Propagation from Cuttings

Want to clone your favorite cinnamon basil? It’s easy:

  • Cutting size: 4–6 inches
  • Method: Root in clean water, change every 2 days
  • Rooting time: 7–10 days
  • Transplant: When roots are at least 1 inch long

More Help: How to Grow Basil from Cuttings

Ongoing Plant Care (Daily + Weekly Routines)

Watering

  • Young plants: Every 2–3 days
  • Mature plants: Every 4–6 days or when top inch of soil is dry

Guide: How Often to Water Basil

Fertilization

Use an organic NPK (5-10-5) every 2–3 weeks. Studies show that using ammonium sulfate instead of ammonium nitrate improves antioxidant and phenolic content, enhancing its nutritional value (source).

More: Essential Nutrients for Basil

Light & Airflow

  • Rotate pots to prevent legginess
  • Ensure proper airflow indoors with a fan to reduce mildew risk

Managing Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

  • Aphids, whiteflies, Japanese beetles
  • Treat with neem oil or insecticidal soap

Pest ID: Common Basil Pests

Common Diseases

  • Root rot (from overwatering)
  • Powdery mildew (from poor airflow)

Solution Guides:

Harvesting Cinnamon Basil — Timing + Techniques

  • When to harvest: Before flowering for peak flavor
  • How: Snip above a leaf node to encourage branching
  • How much: Don’t cut more than 1/3 at a time

Technique Tip: How to Harvest Basil

Preserving and Storing Cinnamon Basil

Freezing

  • Chop and freeze in oil or water (ice cube tray method)
  • Retains 85%+ of flavor over months

Learn: How to Freeze Basil in Ice Cubes

Drying

  • Use a dehydrator or hang bundles upside-down in a dark room

Compare Options:

Advanced Tips: Companion Plants + Varietal Options

Guide: Companion Plants for Basil

Cinnamon Basil FAQs

Can I cook with cinnamon basil like sweet basil?

Yes! It adds a warm, spicy note — excellent in teas, curries, and even desserts.

Why are the stems purple?

Cinnamon basil naturally produces anthocyanins, giving it a deep reddish hue.

Does cinnamon basil attract bees?

Absolutely. It’s highly attractive to pollinators when allowed to flower.

Final Takeaways and Grower Tips

If you love basil but want something with extra zing — cinnamon basil is for you. Stick to the ideal temp-light zone, prune regularly, and rotate pots for even light. You’ll be rewarded with a robust plant full of spice, color, and character.

New to basil? Start here: Basil 101 – The Ultimate Guide and How to Care for Basil Indoors

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George Brown

I'm George Brown, a passionate gardener and the founder of UrbanLeafy.com. I love helping beginners grow fresh herbs, plants and greenery, whether on a windowsill, in a garden or a tiny balcony. My practical, no-fluff tips have been featured in Homes & Gardens, Livingetc, and Best Life, and are rooted in years of real experience. If you're ready to turn your space into a thriving herb haven, you’re in the right place.