Ocimum is a genus of aromatic, annual, or evergreen perennial plants or shrubs in the Lamiaceae family, native to warm temperate and tropical regions worldwide but with a centre of diversity in Africa. Members of this genus can be aromatic annuals, evergreen perennials or shrubs that have opposite, slender to broad leaves and spikes of small, usually blue, purple, pink or white tubular flowers. Commonly cultivated species include O. basilicum, or sweet basil, is extensively used for culinary and medicinal purposes, with many cultivars and hybrids available. Grow as an annual in pots on patio or windowsill, or in a sunny herb garden.