Tulsi Shishir

Tulsi Shishir, officially known as CIM-Shishir, is a scientifically developed hybrid of Holy Basil (Ocimum species) by the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research – Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants (CSIR-CIMAP) in India. This variety represents a remarkable fusion of traditional herbal wisdom with modern agricultural innovation.

Tulsi has been cherished in Indian culture for centuries, not only as a sacred plant but also as a household remedy. What sets Tulsi Shishir apart from other tulsi varieties is its exceptional tolerance to colder climates, a trait derived from its genetic heritage—a cross between Ocimum basilicum (Sweet Basil) and Ocimum kilimandscharicum (Camphor Basil). While most tulsi varieties tend to decline in cooler temperatures, Shishir remains hardy and productive, making it an ideal choice for year-round cultivation in a wider range of regions.

This tulsi variant has lush, broad leaves with a slightly camphoraceous scent and a distinctive purple-green stem that adds ornamental beauty to gardens and balconies. It also boasts a high essential oil yield, especially rich in linalool, which is prized for its calming and antimicrobial effects. The oil extracted from Tulsi Shishir is widely used in aromatherapy, herbal medicine, and natural skincare products.

Whether grown in home gardens, farms, or temple courtyards, Tulsi Shishir thrives with minimal care, making it ideal for home growers, herbal enthusiasts, and commercial cultivators alike. Its robust nature, combined with its spiritual, medicinal, and aromatic value, makes it a true gem among herbal plants.