Shiso Perilla frutescens var. crispa
ABOUT
The plant known commonly as Shiso is characterized by its distinct foliage. The leaves are broad with a somewhat oval shape and come to a pointed tip. They feature a texture that is often wrinkly or crinkled with edges that appear serrated or jagged. The overall look of the leaves can be quite lush, and they are known for their vibrant colors, which can range from deep greens to purples and even reds. Additionally, they might have an underside that contrasts in color, sometimes lighter, sometimes just as intensely colored. As the Shiso reaches maturity, it produces small flowers that cluster together in inflorescences, which further adds to its ornamental value. These flowers can have a subtle coloration, often reflecting pale lavender to white hues. Their size is not very large when compared to the prominent leaves, which remain the plant's most striking feature. The plant's overall habit is bushy, giving it a full and robust appearance with an ability to fill out the space it occupies. Its stems are sturdy, and along with the leaves, they may exhibit fine hairs, which add to its textured look. Shiso is not only appreciated for its aesthetic qualities but also for its aromatic properties, as the leaves are fragrant and can fill the surrounding area with a pleasant scent, often reminiscent of mint or basil. It is both ornamental and functional, popular in various culinary traditions for its flavor profile.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Lamiaceae
Synonyms
Perilla, Shiso, Beefsteak Plant, Chinese Basil, Purple Mint, Wild Coleus, Perilla Mint
Common names
Perilla nankinensis, Perilla frutescens var. purpurascens, Perilla frutescens var. japonica, Perilla frutescens var. acuta, Perilla ocymoides, Perilla avium, Ocimum crispum, Perilla arguta, Perilla frutescens.
ToxicityTo humans
Shiso, also known as Perilla frutescens var. crispa, is not generally considered toxic to humans when consumed in food-appropriate quantities. However, like many plants, shiso should be consumed with caution as individual allergies may occur, and large amounts could potentially cause stomach upset or adverse reactions in some people. Prolonged use of perilla oil may have adverse effects such as lung inflammation in some cases, though this is rare. It is always best to introduce new foods gradually and be attentive to any signs of an allergic reaction or digestive discomfort.
To pets
Shiso may be toxic to pets, especially animals like dogs and cats. If ingested, it can cause symptoms such as vomiting, nausea, abdominal pain, and in severe cases, pulmonary edema which is an accumulation of fluid in the lungs. As perilla ketone found in the plant is known to be toxic to some animals, it can result in respiratory distress and symptoms may vary in severity depending on the amount ingested and the size of the pet. It is advisable to keep shiso out of reach of pets and to seek veterinary attention immediately if you suspect your pet has ingested any part of the plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Annuals
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
2 feet (60 cm)
Spread
1 foot (30 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
10
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Culinary Uses: The plant, commonly known as Shiso, is widely used in Japanese, Korean, and Southeast Asian cuisine for flavoring, coloring, and as a garnish.
- Nutritional Value: Shiso leaves are rich in calcium, iron, potassium, and vitamins A, C, and K.
- Aromatic Qualities: The plant has a unique aroma that can be used in potpourris and as a natural scent in household products.
- Insect Repellent: The strong fragrance of Shiso is believed to be a deterrent for certain insects and pests.
- Erosion Control: The deep roots of Shiso help in stabilizing the soil, making it useful for controlling erosion in gardens and farmlands.
- Companion Planting: Shiso can be planted with other crops to enhance growth and flavor, making it beneficial in diverse planting systems.
- Ornamental Value: With its distinctive leaf shapes and colors, Shiso serves as an attractive foliage plant in gardens and landscapes.
- Crafting and Dye: The pigments from Shiso leaves can be used as a natural dye for fabrics and in traditional crafts.
Medical Properties- Anti-inflammatory: Contains compounds that may help reduce inflammation.
- Antioxidant: Offers antioxidant activity due to its flavonoids and phenolic acids.
- Anxiolytic: May possess anxiolytic effects, helping to reduce anxiety.
- Immunomodulatory: May have effects on the immune system, potentially modulating immune responses.
- Antiallergenic: Possible use in alleviating allergic reactions because of its anti-inflammatory properties.
- Antimicrobial: Evidence suggests it may have antibacterial and antiviral activities.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Traditional Dye: The leaves of the perilla plant can be used to produce a natural dye, specifically purple, which is traditionally used in Korea for coloring fabrics such as silk and cotton.
- Essential Oil Fragrance: Perilla essential oil, extracted from the plant, is occasionally used in perfumes for its unique aroma, adding a spicy, mint-like fragrance note.
- Natural Preservative: Extracts from perilla leaves have been shown to have antioxidant properties, which can help extend the shelf life of certain foods by protecting them from oxidation.
- Insect Repellent: The oil derived from perilla seeds contains compounds that can be effective in repelling mosquitoes and other insects.
- Cooking Oil: The seeds of the shiso plant are high in omega-3 fatty acids and can be pressed to produce a cooking oil that is used in Korean and Chinese cuisines.
- Flavor Enhancer: Dried and crushed shiso leaves are often used as a spice or condiment to add flavor to rice, soups, and other dishes, providing a basil-like zesty flavor.
- Art Supplies: The extracted color from perilla can be used as a pigment in watercolor or ink for art purposes, offering a natural alternative to synthetic colors.
- Decoration: The vibrant leaves of the shiso are used to add visual appeal to dishes in restaurants, functioning as both garnish and an additional flavor component.
- Animal Bedding: Dried shiso plants are sometimes used as bedding material for small animals due to their pleasant smell and potential insect-repellent properties.
- Culinary Mold: Shiso leaves are large and robust enough to be used as natural wrappers or molds for making rice balls, cheese and other moldable foods.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Shiso is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Shiso is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Protection - In some cultures, shiso is believed to ward off evil spirits or misfortune, making it a symbol of a protective barrier.
- Purity - The plant's aromatic qualities are often associated with cleanliness and purity, making it a symbol for these virtues.
- Good Fortune - In East Asian traditions, shiso is seen as an emblem of luck and blessing, often used in ceremonies and rituals to invite positive energy.
- Healing - Due to its medicinal properties, shiso symbolizes health and healing, symbolizing the restoration of balance and wellness.
WaterThe Shiso plant requires consistent moisture and should be watered when the top inch of the soil feels dry to the touch, typically once or twice a week, depending on the environmental conditions. It is important not to overwater and avoid soggy soil, so providing about half a gallon of water per week during the growing season is usually sufficient. Reduce the amount of water slightly during the cooler months. Always water the plant at the base, near the soil to keep the leaves dry and prevent fungal diseases.
LightShiso plants prefer full sun to partial shade conditions with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. An ideal spot would be in a south-facing garden or near a window where it can get abundant natural light throughout the day. However, in extremely hot climates, providing some afternoon shade can help to protect the plant from scorching.
TemperatureShiso plants thrive in temperatures ranging from 60°F to 75°F and can tolerate a minimum temperature of 45°F. They are not frost-hardy, so it's important to protect them or move them indoors if temperatures are expected to dip below 45°F. The optimal growing temperature for Shiso is between the suggested range for healthy growth and development.
PruningPrune Shiso plants to encourage bushier growth and to remove any yellowing or dead leaves. Pinching off the tips of the plants regularly can promote a fuller shape. Pruning should be done as needed throughout the growing season, and the best time to do heavy pruning is in the early spring before new growth begins.
CleaningAs needed
SoilShiso, also known as Perilla, thrives in a well-draining soil mix with a pH between 5.5 and 7.0. A blend with equal parts potting soil, perlite, and peat moss creates an ideal growing medium. Ensuring good organic content by adding compost helps with moisture retention and provides essential nutrients.
RepottingShiso should generally be repotted annually, as it is a fast-growing plant. Younger shiso plants might require repotting more frequently if they outgrow their containers, whereas mature plants can be refreshed with new soil to maintain vigor.
Humidity & MistingPerilla, also known as Shiso, prefers a moderate humidity level, ideally between 40% to 70%. This mimics its native environment and supports healthy growth without encouraging fungal diseases.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Grow Shiso (Perilla) indoors with bright indirect light and regular watering.
Outdoor
Plant Shiso outdoors in full sun to partial shade in well-draining soil.
Hardiness zone
10-11 USDA
Life cyclePerilla, also known as shiso or beefsteak plant, starts its life as a seed that, under appropriate conditions of warmth and moisture, will germinate and sprout. As a seedling, it develops its first true leaves and begins the photosynthesis process. As it grows into a juvenile plant, it forms a stem and a leaf structure in a rosette. The plant reaches maturity and enters the flowering stage, where it produces distinctive flowers, often in shades of white to purple, which are pollinated by insects or wind. After pollination, the flowers develop into small fruits (nutlets), containing seeds that complete the generation cycle when they fall to the ground or are dispersed. Finally, the parent plant will die off, usually after completing its annual or biennial life cycle, depending on climate and growing conditions.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method of propagation for Perilla frutescens var. crispa, commonly known as Shiso, is through seeds. Propagation time is ideally in the spring, after the last frost when the soil has warmed to at least 68°F (20°C). To propagate Shiso from seed, begin by scattering the seeds lightly onto well-draining soil in either a pot or directly in the garden. Since Shiso seeds need light to germinate, they should not be covered but rather pressed gently into the soil surface. Keeping the soil consistently moist, germination should occur within 1 to 2 weeks. Once seedlings have sprouted and have grown a few inches tall, they should be thinned or transplanted to allow for proper air circulation and growth space.
