| Thai basil | |
|---|---|
Early season Thai basil | |
| Species | O. basilicum var.thyrsiflora |
| Cultivar group | Thai basil |

Thai basil, orAsian basil is a type of sweetbasil. It is found in Southeast Asia. Thai basil has small, narrow leaves and purple stems. The flower is amauve (pink-purple) color. Onecultivar commonly grown in theUnited States is 'Queen of Siam'.
Thai basil is an important ingredient in the very popular Taiwanese dish,sanbeiji (three cup chicken). Used as acondiment, a plate of raw Thai basil leaves is often served withphở (Vietnamese-style noodle soup) so each customer can season it to taste with theanise-flavored leaves.