RED SHISO (PERILLA) Herb Seeds
Botanical Name: Perilla frutescens
- Aromatic annual herb with red serrated leaves and a refreshing flavour.
- Popular in Japanese and Korean cooking for pickling, garnishes, and sushi.
- Leaves offer a complex blend of citrus, mint, clove, and anise notes.
- Used fresh or pickled, and often as a colourful alternative to seaweed.
- Suitable for garden beds or pots in sunny or part-shaded areas.
Plant Details
- Plant Type: Annual herb
- Plant Height: 30–60 cm
Sowing Information
- Germination: 14–21 days at 19–21°C
- Depth: Sow 1 mm deep
- Position: Full sun to partial shade
- Sow Where: Direct sow into garden beds or containers
- Soil Type: Rich, well-drained soil
- Spacing: 30 cm between plants
Growing Tips
- Water regularly to maintain even soil moisture, especially during dry periods.
- Protect plants from frost and cold weather.
- Harvest young leaves for the best texture and flavour.
- Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Harvest
Harvest 70–80 days after sowing. Pick leaves as needed for fresh use or drying.
When to Sow Red Shiso in Your Climate
| Climate Zone | Best Planting Time | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Temperate | Spring to early summer | Sow after frost. Start indoors in early spring if needed. |
| Subtropical | Spring to early summer | Sow in well-drained soil with good sunlight and airflow. |
| Tropical | Autumn to early winter | Grow in part shade and avoid the wettest part of the year. |
| Cool | Late spring to summer | Start indoors or sow after risk of frost has passed. |
| Arid | Spring and autumn | Avoid extreme heat. Keep soil moist during germination. |
Click here to find out more information about growing shiso as a herb and microgreens.
