What it is
Shiso (Perilla) (Perilla frutescens) is in the Lamiaceae (Mint) family. A bold Japanese mint-family herb — minty-basil-anise leaves in green or striking purple. Self-sows readily.
How to grow it
It wants full sun to part shade, water it moderate, and give it rich soil. Target a soil pH around 6.0–7.0. Space plants about 12 in apart. Expect roughly 70–90. Warm-season annual; self-sows.
How it's used
Shiso (Perilla) is used: fresh, pickled, wraps.
🔎 How to identify it
- Broad toothed green or purple leaves
- Square stems
- Strong distinct aroma
Edibility
PartsLeaves and seeds
UsesFresh, pickled, wraps
CautionSelf-sows aggressively.
🌤 Before you plant: check the live 7-day garden weather to time it right for frost and heat.
Part of the free Texas Roots plant database, compiled by Jordan Polasek from his greenhouse in El Campo, Texas. Free to read and share. If it helped, the best thanks is to grow something.