Shiso
Perilla frutescens var. crispa
crispa
About this plant
Perilla frutescens var. crispa, commonly known as Shiso, is an aromatic herb with crinkled leaves that come in green or purple shades. It is widely used in Asian cooking for its unique flavor and also valued for its ornamental foliage. The plant grows quickly and can reach about 60-90 cm tall. It has a mild minty aroma and is often grown in herb gardens or pots.
Taxonomy
- Genus
- Perilla
- Family
- Lamiaceae
- Higher classification
- Order Lamiales
- Plant type
- Herb
- Lifespan
- Annual
Origin & Distribution
- Native region
- East Asia
- Distribution
- Native to East Asia; widely cultivated in Japan, Korea, China, and also grown in home gardens worldwide.
Care
- Light preference
- Full sun
- Suitable locations
- Indoor, Outdoor, Balcony
- Preferred window facing
- South-facing, East-facing, West-facing
- Watering frequency
- Moderate
- Watering interval
- 2–5 days
- Humidity
- Normal
- Minimum
- 10 °C
- Maximum
- 30 °C
- Optimal
- 18-25 °C
- USDA hardiness zones
- 7-10
- Soil pH
- 6.0-7.5
- Soil type
- well-draining loam, potting soil mix
Watering. Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry.
Fertilizing. Feed with a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season to support healthy leaf growth.
Perilla crispa is a hardy and fast-growing herb that prefers sunny spots and well-drained soil. It needs regular watering but avoid waterlogging. It is generally low-maintenance and can thrive in garden beds or containers with minimal care.
Propagation
- Propagation methods
- Seeds, Cuttings
- Care difficulty
- Easy
Ornamental features
- Flowering
- Yes
- Flowering period
- summer
Crinkled, colorful leaves (green or purple), small pale flowers in summer.
Toxicity & Safety
- Toxic to humans
- Non-toxic
- Toxic to pets
- Non-toxic
- Weed potential
- Not considered a weed
Non-toxic to humans and pets; safe to grow around children and animals.
Allergy information
- Allergy risk
- Low
- Allergy triggers
- Pollen, Skin contact
- Pollen level
- Low
Perilla frutescens var. crispa may cause mild allergic reactions in some people, especially those sensitive to its pollen or who come into contact with its leaves. Symptoms can include skin irritation or sneezing. To reduce exposure, avoid direct contact if you have sensitive skin and keep the plant in a well-ventilated area.
Common problems
Overwatering can cause root rot, while too little light may lead to leggy growth. Pests like aphids or spider mites can occasionally appear but are usually manageable.
Uses
Used as a culinary herb in Asian dishes, for garnishing, flavoring, and also grown for its attractive foliage.
Notes
Pinching back the tips encourages bushier growth. The plant can self-seed if flowers are left to mature. It is best grown as an annual in most climates.