tulsi has a long history as a sacred plant of india. being in the basil genus and because of its spiritual significance, it is sometimes referred to as 'holy basil'. it is also widely used in ayurvedic medicine. tulsi has a family of distinct plant varietals that are known as purple leaf (krishna), green leaf (rama) and wild forest (vana). each varietal has a unique flavor. most indians grow tulsi at home, symbolic of nourishment and sacredness. it is typically planted in a courtyard, inside an ornate, decorative, earthen pot. evening and morning prayers are held around the tulsi plant in the courtyard.