Position

Sun exposure:
Dappled shade, full sun
Aspect:
South facing, west facing

Soil

Clay / Heavy / Moist / Well Drained / Light / Sandy

Perilla frutescens var. crispa has many common names, including purple shiso, Chinese basil and purple perilla. Leaves have a unique taste, which is said to be a combination of the flavours of mint and basil, with a hint of cumin.

Popular in Asia, the purple-red leaves may be used to colour and flavour vinegar and to make pink rice. They can also be grown as micro-leaves, to include in salads.

Grow Perilla frutescens var. crispa in rich, well-drained soil in full sun. Water only when dry. Provide cloche protection in cool weather.

Plant calendar

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Sowyesyes
Plantyesyes
Harvestyesyesyesyes

Perilla and wildlife

Perilla has no particular known value to wildlife in the UK.

Is Perilla poisonous?

Perilla has no toxic effects reported.

No reported toxicity to:
Is not known to attract Birds
Birds
Is not known to attract Cats
Cats
Is not known to attract Dogs
Dogs
Is not known to attract Horses
Horses
Is not known to attract Livestock
Livestock
Is not known to attract People
People
Plants that go well with Perilla frutescens
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