Variations in phenolic composition and antioxidant properties among 15 basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) cultivars

► We determine how cultivar influences phenolic composition and antioxidant capacity in basil. ► Cultivar impacted total and individual phenolic concentrations and antioxidant capacities. ► Nine of the cultivars had chicoric acid in higher concentrations than rosmarinic acid. ► Individual phenolic acid composition strongly influences antioxidant capacity in basil.