Ocimum tenuiflorum is the botanical name of Holy basil.
It is close to GOD in Hindu Culture and holds high religious significance.
One leaf a day will eradicate lot of ailments.
Hindus pray to the plant on everyday basis.
This must have come to you for a reason.....
Keep it...for good luck and wellbeing.
Am not even sure why they wrote ornamental only.....
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ocimum_tenuiflorum

Above is the link to its complete details.
As any other Basil ....it is not perinnial.
But the seeds which fall off it starts a new plant.....

Keep it..

Hello Sharmigarden,

Thank you for taking the time to reply to my post.

I did read that this basil is revered in India and other countries, as well.

Thanks, also, for the link.

You may be right, that I brought this plant home for a reason and I definitely am keeping it for my wellbeing. The leaves have an interesting flavor to them and the scent of the leaves is pleasant. The taste is good, as well.

Would the plant be perennial if it's not frozen, or is it just a straight annual? If the plant blooms, does it ruin it for eating the leaves? I guess I need to read everything in the link you sent. :)

Thanks again,

Vivian

Hello Vivian,
It is a tropical plant...
It will do well for a long time( for years) in a nice sunny spot..maybe a window during below 50F days...
The flowering produces tiny black seeds...which on sowing produce more plants in 80F+ temps.
you need to remove the flowers....if you do not want a dry looking edge...

Enjoy!