In this analysis, axillary buds, obtained from growing plants, were used to conduct mitotic study. Results from this study showed chromosome counts of 2n = 48 and 60, thus bringing to light the existence of chromosome number variation and
the possibility of polyploidy at different levels in the plant species in this agro-ecological zone. This research has,
therefore, established that at least there are two cytotypes in the population of Ocimum basilicum growing in the
humid forest vegetation zone of Nigeria. Analysis of the two cytotypes revealed asymmetrical karyotypes, indicative
of advancement in the evolutionary trend of the plant species.