A vignette in herbology

Thing I learned today that I had never had much cause to think about before: ( basil produces flowers )

Then I learned that I had to cut those suckers off really quick, or else my basil would get all bitter and bad. I don't know these things, I only bought the stupid plant at the grocery store because:

1) It was $3

2) It's a freaking purple plant

3) I figured if I bought an herb I like, I might be reminded to cook for myself every time I look out the window. It's true, I am reminded, but that has yet to manifest itself in cooking.