The Origin of Basil Plants: The Most Fragrant Tradition of the Popular Saints' Festivals

The Origins of Manjericos: The Most Fragrant Tradition of Portugal's Popular Saints Festivities

When the Popular Saints festivities arrive, the streets fill with colour, music, grilled sardines and one very special plant: the manjerico. Found at virtually every celebration of Saint Anthony, Saint John and Saint Peter, the manjerico is one of the most iconic symbols of Portugal's traditional festivities. But do you know the origins of this tradition?

 

A Tradition with Centuries of History

The manjerico (Ocimum minimum) is an aromatic plant native to India and other regions of Asia, which reached Europe through ancient trade routes. In Portugal, it quickly earned a special place in popular culture due to its intense fragrance and ornamental qualities.

The association between manjericos and the Popular Saints festivities dates back several centuries, particularly to the celebrations of Saint Anthony on 13 June. According to tradition, people in love would offer a pot of manjerico accompanied by a popular verse as a symbol of affection and good luck.

Over time, this gesture became a deeply rooted custom in various regions of the country, and today it is almost impossible to imagine the Popular Saints festivities without the characteristic pots of manjerico decorated with colourful paper ornaments.

 

Why Shouldn't You Smell a Manjerico Directly?

One of the best-known curiosities about this plant is that you should not bring your nose directly to the leaves to smell them. Tradition recommends gently brushing your hand over the plant and then enjoying the fragrance left on your hand.

Although there are several popular explanations for this custom, the most widely accepted is related to the delicate nature of the leaves, which can darken or become damaged when handled excessively.

 

The Meaning of the Traditional Verses

Manjericos are traditionally accompanied by short verses written on colourful paper. These messages may be about love, friendship and happiness, or even contain some of the playful humour typical of the festivities.

One classic example is:

"Ó meu rico manjerico,

Plantado no meu quintal,

Leva contigo um abraço,

Neste Santo António especial."

These verses continue to be a simple and genuine way of expressing feelings and keeping alive a tradition that has been passed down from generation to generation.

 

Take the Tradition Home

If you would like to celebrate the Popular Saints festivities in an authentic way, we have manjericos available in 11 cm pots, ideal as gifts, for decorating your home or bringing a festive touch to your June celebrations.

With its characteristic fragrance and symbolism associated with friendship and love, the manjerico remains one of the most beautiful traditions in Portuguese culture.

Visit our nursery and discover our manjericos in 11 cm pots.

Celebrate Portugal's Popular Saints festivities with a touch of tradition, fragrance and joy.