Regions: South India

Thick scented leaves on a succulent stem; one plant fills a windowsill pot for years.

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.