A lovely member of the mint family with a mildly peppery taste, a hint of clove and mint, basil is at the same time spicy and sweet, warm and fresh. There are over twelve varieties of Basil grown for culinary use, the most common of these is Ocimum basilicum. Alternative names include herb royale, St. Joseph"s wort, and sweet basil. Can be enjoyed with vegetables (especially tomatoes), in dressings and sauces, soups and stews, and with meats, beans, and grains. It has even earned a place next to oregano on pizzas.