1/2 g. 'Shiso' seeds, Perilla frutescens, purple
Uses: Culinary/Aromatic/Medicinal
Duration: Annual
When to Sow: Spring
Ease of Germination: Easy after stratification.
(Aoshiso) Decorative green foliage with highly aromatic, crinkly serrated leaves adds an interesting aromatic texture to the garden. This is an ornamental, nutritious food plant, and medicinal herb native to Southeast Asia. Cinnamon-scented leaves are popular in Japan for flavoring raw fish, bean curd, pickles and tempura. Seeds can be used to produce cooking oil. High in antioxidants and polyphenolic compounds as well as flavonoids which work to reduce oxidative stress and aid in cancer prevention. Thrives in hot, sunny locations, but can withstand some light shade. Height 1-3 ft.
Before sowing, cold stratify the seeds at 40°F for 3 days in moist sand.