Red Shiso
Perilla frutescens
per-ILL-uh froo-TESS-enz
Edibles: Herb
Japanese Basil
Min. Temp
Very Tender: 38°
Distinct cinnamon/clove flavor and aroma, with the spiciness of cumin. Used in Asian cooking, sushi and salad mix. Red shiso adds brilliant color to radish pickles and umeboshi plums. Also known as perilla. Edible Flowers: The flowers are a flavorful addition to salads and Asian dishes. Pairs well with fish, rice, noodles, and cucumbers. The minty, basil-like flavor has hints of clove and cumin.
Appearance
Summer Foliage
Red
Fall Foliage
Red
Flower Color
White
Blooming Time
Mid Summer - Fall
Habit
Upright
Height
18–30 in
Spread
18–24 in
Form
Spike
Characteristics
Type
Open-Pollinated
Safety
Edible Parts
Growth Rate
Fast
Tolerance/Resistance
Red Shiso
Attracts
Attracts Beneficial Insects
Uses/Placement
Red Shiso
Optimal Growing Conditions
Sun Exposure
Full Sun - Part Shade
Soil Texture
Loamy
Soil Drainage
Well-drained
Soil Moisture
Dry to Average
Soil PH
Slightly Acidic: 6.0-6.5
PH Tolerance
Prefers slightly acidic soil
Soil Amendment(s)
Compost
Fertilizer
Moderate Feeder
Fertilizer Formula
Rooting & Blooming
Fertilizer Timing
Early Spring
Micronutrients
Trace Minerals Beneficial
Care
Care Level
Low
Behavior and Propagation
Spreading
Moderate Spreader
Propagation Method
Benefits from Pollinators
Propagation Licensing
Open propagation permitted
Division Timing
Do Not Divide
Fruit and Pollination
Days to Harvest
60 Days
Fruit Size
Medium
Fruit Characteristics
Herbal Flavor