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Basilicum
Basilicum polystachyon (3966964034).jpg
Basilicum polystachyon
Scientific classification
Genus:
Basilicum
Species:
polystachyon
Synonyms
  • Lumnitzera Jacq. ex Spreng. 1825 not Willd. 1803
  • Moschosma Rchb.
  • Perxo Raf.
  • Lehmannia Jacq. ex Jacq.f. 1844 not Spreng. 1817 nor Tratt. 1824
  • Ocimum polystachyon L.
  • Ocimum moschatum Salisb.
  • Lumnitzera polystachyon (L.) J.Jacq. ex Spreng.
  • Moschosma polystachyon (L.) Benth.
  • Perxo polystachyon (L.) Raf.
  • Plectranthus parviflorus R.Br. 1810 not Willd. 1806 nor Spreng. 1806 nor Gürke 1898
  • Plectranthus micranthus Spreng.
  • Ocimum dimidiatum Schumach. & Thonn.
  • Moschosma dimidiatum (Schumach. & Thonn.) Benth.
  • Lehmannia ocymoidea Jacq. ex Steud.
  • Ocimum tashiroi Hayata

Basilicum is a special group of plants, also known as a genus. It belongs to the Lamiaceae family, which is often called the mint family. This genus was first officially described in the year 1802.

There is only one known type of plant in the Basilicum genus. This single species is called Basilicum polystachyon. It is a fascinating plant that grows naturally in many parts of the world.

About Basilicum polystachyon

Basilicum polystachyon is the only species found in the Basilicum genus. It is important to know that this plant is different from the common culinary herb basil, which you might use in cooking. The herb basil belongs to a different genus called Ocimum.

This plant is a type of herb. It has a unique appearance and grows in various warm climates around the globe. Scientists have studied its characteristics to understand its place in the plant kingdom.

Where Does Basilicum polystachyon Grow?

Basilicum polystachyon is native to many different regions. This means it grows naturally in these places without being planted by people. Its wide native range shows how adaptable this plant is.

It can be found across a large part of Africa and the island of Madagascar. In Asia, it grows in countries like Saudi Arabia, India, and China. You can also find it in Indochina, Borneo, and the Philippines.

Beyond these areas, Basilicum polystachyon also thrives in New Guinea and Australia. It is also present on many islands in both the Pacific Ocean and the Indian Ocean. This wide distribution makes it a truly global plant.

What Are Synonyms?

When scientists name plants, sometimes a plant might get several different names over time. These extra names are called synonyms. Think of them like nicknames for the plant.

For Basilicum polystachyon, there have been many synonyms. For example, it was once known as Ocimum polystachyon. Another old name was Moschosma polystachyon. These different names show how scientific understanding of plants can change and develop over the years.

Scientists use these synonyms to keep track of how the plant has been classified in the past. It helps them understand the history of its study. Today, Basilicum polystachyon is the accepted scientific name for this unique plant.

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