Perilla frutescens crispa

Common Name:
Shiso – Green Perilla

Description:
Shiso Green, also known as Green Perilla (Perilla frutescens var. crispa), is a highly aromatic herb from the mint family, widely used in Japanese, Korean, and Southeast Asian cuisines. It features vibrant green, serrated leaves with a soft, slightly crinkled texture and a flavour that combines hints of basil, mint, anise, and cinnamon. In Melbourne gardens, Shiso thrives as a warm-season annual, growing quickly in full sun to part shade with well-drained, fertile soil. It benefits from regular watering and performs best with protection from strong winds. Shiso Green can be grown in the ground or in pots, making it an excellent option for edible gardens, balconies, and patios. The plant is not frost-tolerant and should be treated as an annual, though it readily self-seeds in suitable conditions. Leaves can be harvested regularly for culinary use in salads, sushi, pickles, garnishes, or as a wrap for rice and grilled meats.

Form:

• Shrub - Small

• Herb

Mature Size:

• Height: 40–80 cm

• Width: 30–50 cm

Aspect:

• Full Sun

• Part Shade

Flowering:

• Flowers in Summer

• Flowers in Autumn

Flower Colour:

• White to pale pink

Key Attributes:

• Suitable for Pots

• Edible Leaves

• Edible Flowers

• Annual (in Melbourne)

• Herbaceous

• Bee Attracting

• Fast Growing

Toxicity:
Toxic to livestock (particularly cattle and horses) if consumed in large quantities. Safe for human culinary use.

Companion Plants:

• Thai Basil

• Coriander

• Chilli

• Eggplant

• Lemongrass