Basil is the culinary standby in modern kitchens, but over the centuries herbalists have hailed basil as everything from a sacred object of worship to the herb of the devil himself.

Early Greek and Roman physicians believed that basil would thrive if you shouted vile curses while sowing the seeds. Culpeper** said that basil had an affinity for poison, and that scorpions were drawn to it.

On the other hand, Eastern ideas about basil are far different. Pots of basil are grown in temples, sprigs of basil are placed on the dead to protect them from harm, and a house built where basil flourishes will be protected.

Not everyone believes basil is poison. The Italians have held it as a sign of courtship for centuries. A pot of basil on a lady's balcony is a clear sign she's ready to receive her suitor. The French refer to it as the "royal herb."

Medicinally, basil is used in the treatment of mild nervous disorders such as headaches and nausea. Basil is mostly used in the kitchen, and there are a dizzying number of varieties. Go by the smell of the fresh herb to determine what foods will pair with it, and make sure to try every variety you can get your hands on. It's that good.

Harvest before it flowers. The first cutting takes the main stems from the top, but you should leave at least one node with two young shoots intact for subsequent cuttings. It takes two or three weeks to grow back, and can be continually cut until frost.