Thai basil is a fragrant herb that grows up to 1-2 feet tall, known for its sweet, anise-like flavor, and is commonly used in Southeast Asian cuisines. It thrives in warm, sunny conditions with well-drained soil, making it a beneficial addition to food forests due to its ability to attract pollinators and enhance biodiversity. Thai basil is typically planted in the spring, requiring regular watering and occasional pruning to encourage bushy growth and continuous leaf production.