Phenotyping of basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) illuminated with UV-A light of different wavelengths and intensities

•First application of phenotyping in the study of plant response to UV-A.•UV-A with different spectral composition and energy has no inhibitory effect on basil.•UV-A can enhance thylakoid processes.•The increase of anthocyanin index indicates UV-screening response.•High plasticity of basil in preventing UV-A-induced photoinhibition.