Regions: South India

A small shady-forest shrub, historically important and now scarce in the wild.

The household holy basil — thrives in a pot, keeps pests down and brings pollinators to a balcony.

The dark-leaved tulsi, sharper in scent and a little slower to grow than the green.

The wild tulsi — taller, camphor-scented and perennial where winters are mild.

A hardy monsoon spreader with long traditional use, easy to grow and valuable for small insects.