African Blue Basil (Ocimum kilimandscharicum × basilicum 'Dark Opal') is a unique and beautiful hybrid herb prized for its ornamental value and interesting flavor profile. Here's a breakdown of its key characteristics:
 * Origin: Not truly African, but a hybrid resulting from a cross between Ocimum kilimandscharicum (East African camphor basil) and Ocimum basilicum 'Dark Opal' cultivar (likely African and South Asian origins).
 * Size at Maturity: Up to 24-36 inches (60-90 cm) tall and wide.
 * Growth Rate: Moderate
 * Bloom Season: Summer. It produces attractive spikes of purple-pink flowers on purple stems. However, being sterile, it doesn't produce seeds.
 * Leaf Shape: Broad, smooth, dark green leaves with a flush of purple when young.
 * Leaf Aroma: Strong camphor scent inherited from the East African parent (O. kilimandscharicum), but milder than true camphor basil (concentration around 22% compared to 61% in O. kilimandscharicum).
 * Leaf Taste: Earthy with hints of menthol, musk, and cloves. Some may find it too strong for culinary use, making it more of an ornamental herb.
 * Sunlight Requirements: Full sun for best growth.
 * Soil Texture: Prefers moist, well-drained, humus-rich soil. Can tolerate drier soils once established.
 * Soil pH: Adapts to a wide range of soil pH levels.
 * Moisture Requirements: Average to moist. Water regularly during dry periods, especially when young.
 * Salt Spray Tolerance: No
Maintenance Tips: Low maintenance.
   * Water regularly during dry periods.
   * Pinch back stems occasionally to encourage bushier growth (optional).
   * Deadhead spent flowers to potentially extend the flowering period (optional).
  
Considerations:
   * Sterile and propagated by cuttings only. Benefits, it will never go to seed. Endless supply of basil. 
   * More heat tolerant than many basil varieties.
   * The strong camphor scent may not be suitable for all culinary uses. However, some enjoy it in small quantities or teas.
   * Generally pest and disease resistant.
 
Wildlife Benefits:  Attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies to the garden. 
 
Toxicity:  Generally safe for consumption in small quantities.
 
Additional Information:
   * African Blue Basil is a great conversation starter in the garden with its unique foliage and flower color combination.
   * If you plan on using it for culinary purposes, start with small amounts to see if you enjoy the flavor.
   * It can be grown indoors in pots as long as it receives enough sunlight.