How to Care for Perilla frutescens (Shiso)

Korean name: 깻잎(들깨)

Perilla is an annual herb known for its aromatic leaves, commonly grown for culinary use. The leaves are broad with serrated edges and can be green or purplish. It thrives in well-drained soil with ample sunlight.

Key facts

• Category: Vegetable & fruit
• Difficulty: Easy
• Where to keep: indoors or outdoors
• Native to: East Asia (Korea, China, Japan)
• Growth rate: Fast
• Pets: Mildly toxic, so keep pets from chewing on it.
• Traits: beginner-friendly, edible, aromatic leaves, annual
• Also known as: Perilla, Shiso, Beefsteak plant

Care Guide

• Light: Prefers bright locations with direct sunlight.
• Watering: Water thoroughly when the soil surface feels dry.
• Soil: Well-drained fertile soil is ideal.
• Humidity: Grows well in normal humidity.
• Temperature: 18~27°C
• Fertilizer: Apply liquid fertilizer every two weeks during growing season.

Common questions

How often should you water Perilla frutescens?

Water thoroughly when the soil surface feels dry. Roughly every 7 days is the baseline; adjust for the season and the spot it sits in.

Where should you keep Perilla frutescens?

It likes Prefers bright locations with direct sunlight.. You can grow it indoors or outdoors. Use Well-drained fertile soil is ideal..

Is Perilla frutescens safe around pets?

Mildly toxic, so keep pets from chewing on it.

Is Perilla frutescens good for beginners?

Difficulty: Easy. It is forgiving enough for a first plant. Keep it around 18~27°C. Humidity: Grows well in normal humidity.. Fertilise Apply liquid fertilizer every two weeks during growing season..