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Lamiaceae
Perilla frutescens
Perilla, Shiso
Grown for its attractive, aromatic, edible leaves, this annual from eastern and southern Asia is becoming increasingly popular for both ornamental and culinary gardens. Its oval, medium green, often purple-flushed leaves are paired along erect stems that are square in cross section. The spicily flavored leaves have deeply toothed margins that in some forms are ruffled and crisped. In summer, thin spikes of tiny white flowers appear at the stem tips. An abundance of seed follows, often resulting in prolific self-sowing. This annual is most often available in its purple-leaved forms, such as variety crispa, with curly bronze-purple foliage and pinkish flowers. Other varieties with variously flavored or colored foliage are available.
Grow perilla in fertile, moist, well drained soil in full to partial sun. Its handsome coleus-like leaves make a great filler in flower beds or containers, and add visual interest to the vegetable garden. Start plants from seed in spring, and pinch stem tips to force bushier growth.
Add perilla leaves to salads for a colorful cinnamon- or ginger-flavored accent. In Asia the foliage, seeds, and flowers serve many medicinal, culinary, and other uses.
12 - 1
A1, A2, A3, H1, H2, 1a, 1b, 2a, 2b, 3a, 3b, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24
Annual
Full Sun, Partial Sun, Partial Shade
2'-4' / 0.6m - 1.2m
10"-20" / 25.4cm - 50.8cm
Summer
Eastern Asia, Southern Asia, India, Nepal, China
Acidic, Neutral, Alkaline
Average
Clay, Loam, Sand
Fast
Average Water
Upright/Erect
Spring, Summer, Fall
Insignificant
White, Light Pink
Green, Purple
No
Yes
Single
Medium
Matte
Bedding Plant, Container, Edible, Herb / Vegetable, Mixed Border
Sometimes
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