Basil provides one of summer's most indispensible flavors -- rich spiciness with overtones of mint and clove. Some varieties are strong and highly aromatic while others are rich and buttery. Good reasons to grow more than one. And that's why we've put together three of our favorites so you can enjoy comparing their flavors. Crush or mince the leaves or leave them whole in salads and sandwiches. The perfect partner for ripe Tomatoes, Basil is equally delicious paired with Peppers and Onions. And of course, fresh Basil pesto is the king of pasta sauces. One plant of each variety listed below, three plants total. For more information on growing Basil click on "Growing Guide & Tips".

• 'Caesar' -- large, succulent leaves up to 3in long. Easy to grow and compact at 15in tall, the plants are slow to flower, affording a long harvest of tender, very flavorful foliage for pesto.
• 'Pistou' -- a compact Basil with small bright green, spicy leaves
• 'Siam Queen' -- Exotic flavor that's redolent of sweet spices combined with the clove-mint scent and taste of Basil. Grows 1-2ft tall and has distinctive purple stems with large, flat, eye-catching purple flowers. Used in Thai and Cambodian dishes but marvelous in chutneys and marinades too.