Columnar basil is a versatile herb known for its aromatic leaves, which are excellent for culinary uses such as seasoning dishes and making pesto. It grows upright, reaching about 1-2 feet tall, and is ideal for food forests due to its pest-repellent properties and ability to attract beneficial insects. For successful cultivation, plant it in well-draining soil with full sun, regularly prune to encourage bushiness, and it can be grown year-round in warm climates or indoors in cooler regions.