Research on the growing particularities of some basil genotypes (Occimum basilicum) from southern Romania

Basil (Ocimum basilicum) is a species of interest due to its aromatic and therapeutic properties. The genotype of basil significantly influences the volatile oil content, due to genetic differences that determine the ability of each variety to synthesize and accumulate volatile compounds. These compounds are responsible for the aroma, therapeutic properties, and biological activity of the plant. Biometric determinations have allowed basil genotypes to be classified into three groups: weak genotypes of small stature (40-50 cm), such as dwarf basil, Spicy Gloge basil, Greek basil, Siam Queen basil, medium vigour genotypes, 60-90 cm, such as Sweet Basil, Persian Basil, Grand Vert Basil, Dark Opal Red Basil, and the third group is the group of vigorous genotypes, tall, 90-110 cm, such as Cinnamon Basil, Holy Basil, African Basil, Serafim Basil, and Buzău Aromatic Basil. The average green mass depends on the genotype and environmental conditions. This parameter is closely related to and influences the content of volatile substances that are so valuable in plant processing. The highest average green mass was recorded in the Buzău Aromatic genotype with a value of 360.32 g, the Siam Queen Basil genotype with 291.48 g, Dark Opal Red Basil with 290.56 g, and Cinnamon Basil with 290.10 g. The average values for the seed germination period vary from genotype to genotype, being intrinsic values of each genotype characteristic marked in their genetic structure. The lowest average germination period values were recorded for the Sweet Basil genotypes, with 10 days, followed by the Buzău Aromatic Basil genotype, with average values of 10.33 days. Other values were recorded for the Serafim basil genotypes, with average values of 11 days, followed by Macedon basil with 11.33 days.