basil; a genus of the gymnospermia order, belonging to the didynamia clasps of plants; and in the natural method ranking under the 42d order, Verticillate. The upper lip of the calyx is orbiculated, the inferior one quadrifid; the corolla is refunipined, with one lip quadrifid, the other undivided; the exterior filament sends out a reflected process at the base. There are eight species, all of them natives of warm climates, rising from six inches to two feet in height, and having a strong aromatic smell, resembling that of cloves. One of the species is used in the kitchen, particularly by the French cooks, who make great use of it in their soups and sauces. This rises about ten inches high, sending out branches by pairs opposite, from the bottom; the stalks and branches are four-cornered; the leaves are oval, spear-shaped, ending in acute points, and are indented on their edges; the whole plant is hairy, and has a strong scent of cloves too powerful for most persons, but to some it is very agreeable. These plants are propagated by seeds, and will thrive in this country in the open air, and will even ripen their seeds if placed in a stove or airy glass-case.