Tulsi: Exploring the Species and Varieties of Holy Basil

For centuries, tulsi—also known as holy basil—has been revered as a sacred plant in Ayurvedic medicine and Hindu tradition. But there’s not just one kind of tulsi? Tulsi encompasses a number of species and varieties, each with its own unique appearance, aroma, and health benefits.

Whether you’re an herbal tea lover, a grower, or simply curious about this powerful plant, understanding the different types of tulsi can deepen your appreciation for its rich botanical diversity.

What Is Holy Basil?

Tulsi (Ocimum tenuiflorum), also known as holy basil, has long been revered in Ayurvedic medicine for its wide-ranging healing properties. Today, modern research is beginning to validate what traditional systems have known for centuries—highlighting tulsi’s adaptogenic and antimicrobial qualities. Studies suggest that tulsi may help support metabolic function and promote a balanced stress response.

Botanically speaking, it’s a member of the mint family (Lamiaceae) and shares many of the aromatic and medicinal qualities of other mint relatives. There are several species of tulsi—each with distinct botanical traits and energetic properties.

While the term "holy basil" is often used interchangeably with tulsi, not all types of basil referred to as “holy” are the same plant. In this article, we’ll be focusing primarily on Ocimum tenuiflorum (also known as Ocimum sanctum), which includes Rama, Krishna, Amrita, and other closely related varieties.

Is Holy Basil a Perennial?

In its native tropical habitat, holy basil is considered a perennial. However, here at La Ferme À Ciel Sur Mer in Charlevoix, Québec, we grow tulsi as an annual, since our northern climate doesn’t allow it to overwinter outdoors. We start our tulsi from seed each season.

What Does Holy Basil Look Like?

Tulsi can vary in appearance depending on the species or cultivar. Common features include:

• Soft, slightly hairy leaves

• Serrated edges

• Foliage that ranges from green to deep purple

• Small, delicate flowers in lavender, white, or pink

• A warm, clove-like scent with floral or citrus undertones
  

Tulsi in Ayurveda

In the Ayurvedic tradition, tulsi is considered a sacred plant with sattvic qualities—supporting clarity, purity, and harmony of the body and mind.
Tulsi is listed among the core Rasayana herbs by India’s Ministry of AYUSH, which oversees traditional medical systems.

Each tulsi variety is associated with different doshic effects, meaning they interact differently with the body’s energies (vata, pitta, kapha). This makes it important to understand the different types of tulsi when selecting one for therapeutic use or home cultivation.

Understanding Tulsi Species and Varieties

The terms "tulsi species," "holy basil species," and "tulasi plant types" refer to the wide range of tulsi plants used in Ayurvedic practice and cultural tradition. While classification varies, here are the most widely known types of tulsi:

🌿 Rama Tulsi (Ocimum tenuiflorum – Rama variety)

This is one of the most common and accessible types of tulsi basil, and one that we grow here at La Ferme À Ciel Sur Mer.

Features:

• Bright green leaves

• Mild, sweet flavor with a clove-like aroma

• Grows well in temperate climates

Energetics: Cooling and calming—often used for stress relief and general wellness.

We find Rama tulsi to be a dependable and hearty grower in our northern garden, making it a wonderful introduction to the tulsi plant family.

One charming aspect we’ve noticed is how tulsi seeds require exposure to light to germinate. We hold the tiny seeds up to the sun before planting—it's a small ritual that always feels fitting for such a sacred plant.

🌿 Krishna Tulsi (Ocimum tenuiflorum – Krishna variety)

Also known as Shyama tulsi, this variety is known for its darker leaves and spicier aroma.

Features:

• Purple-green leaves

• Strong, peppery fragrance

• More intense medicinal flavor

Energetics: Warming and stimulating—often used for respiratory issues and energy support.

While we don’t currently grow Krishna tulsi, it’s high on our list for future trials due to its unique color and traditional potency.

🌿 Vana Tulsi (Ocimum gratissimum)

This wild forest variety is genetically distinct from Rama and Krishna, and is sometimes called African basil or tree basil.

Features:

• Larger leaves with jagged edges

• Lemon-like aroma

• Tall and vigorous growth

Energetics: Uplifting and slightly warming—traditionally used for energy, digestion, and mood.

Vana tulsi grows best in tropical climates and may not thrive in northern gardens without protection or greenhouse conditions.

🌿 Amrita Tulsi (Hybrid of Krishna & Vana)

This lesser-known hybrid combines traits of both Krishna and Vana tulsi. We’ve been experimenting with it at our farm and are enjoying its vigor and unique aromatic profile.

Features:

• Medium green leaves

• Earthy, spicy fragrance

• Robust grower with broad leaves

We’ve found that Amrita tulsi does well in protected, sunny spots on the farm. Like Rama, it thrives as an annual in our northern climate.

Other Kinds of Tulsi

There are additional lesser-known tulasi plant types and local cultivars found throughout India and Southeast Asia. Some farmers and herbalists are also experimenting with crosses and regional adaptations, including:

• Kapoor Tulsi – A variety sometimes included under Rama tulsi, known for its fast growth in temperate regions.

• Temperate Tulsi – Bred for northern climates, similar to Kapoor.

• African Tulsi Hybrids – Combining tulsi with African basil for essential oil production.

While we haven’t tried all of these on our farm, the diversity in holy basil species is a testament to its adaptability and global appeal.

A Tulsi Plant’s Journey: Light, Germination, and Growth

One of our favorite things about growing tulsi is the way the seeds germinate only after exposure to light. As part of our seeding ritual, we take a quiet moment to hold the tiny tulsi seeds up to the sun before planting. It’s a simple gesture, but a powerful one—a way of honoring the plant's need for light before it begins its life in our soil.

Comparing Varieties: Flavor, Growth, and Benefits

Each kind of tulsi brings something different to the table—or to your teacup. Here's a quick comparison:

 

Holy Basil Flowers and Garden Life

Tulsi plants eventually bloom, sending up slender stalks of small, fragrant flowers. While many herbalists pinch off the blooms to extend leaf production, we sometimes let our plants flower—it brings joy to see bees and butterflies dancing among the blossoms.

Letting tulsi flower can also be a reminder of its life cycle and its generosity. Holy basil flowers are delicate and fragrant, often tinted white or pink depending on the variety.

Growing Tulsi in the Garden

Here in Charlevoix, we start tulsi indoors while the snow still lingers outside, transplanting to the fields once the soil warms.

Tulsi growing tips from our farm:

• Use well-draining soil rich in compost.

• Give your plants full sun and gentle spacing.

• Water moderately, and pinch back often to encourage bushiness.

• Protect it from frost—tulsi loves heat.
  
  

If you're curious about how we prepare our herbs after harvest, take a look at our guide to preparing herbs for medicinal use.

Tulsi in Daily Rituals and Herbal Practice

Tulsi holds space in traditional rituals and wellness practices alike. Whether you’re using tulsi for tea, for tinctures, or simply growing it to connect with nature, its adaptability and resilience are a gift.

On our farm, tulsi is one of the herbs we return to again and again—both for its healing properties and the peace it seems to radiate.

Where to Find Organic Tulsi

If you’re looking for tulsi plants or dried tulsi grown with care, seek out small-scale herbal farms or community apothecaries. At La Ferme À Ciel Sur Mer, we grow Rama and Amrita Tulsi using organic practices, with respect for the land and the cycles of the season.

We love sharing our harvest with others who are as passionate about plants as we are. If you're curious about our offerings, you can explore more here.

Final Thoughts: Celebrating the Diversity of Tulsi

There’s something truly magical about discovering the many types of tulsi—from the cooling calm of Rama to the radiant zing of Vana. On our farm, we’re still exploring, still learning, and still in awe of what tulsi has to teach.

So whether you grow it, sip it, or simply admire it, may you find the kind of tulsi that speaks to your season of life.