Perilla frutescens purpurea RED SHISO (plant)

Red Shiso, also known as Purple Perilla or Perilla frutescens in Latin, is an annual herbaceous plant belonging to the Lamiaceae family. It has been cultivated and used in Northeast Asia since ancient times. It reaches a height of 50 to 70 cm by late summer. Its growth is rapid.

The plant features dense foliage with oval, slightly serrated purple leaves, as well as a purple stem. The leaves are thick, fuzzy to the touch, and release a very characteristic spicy aromatic scent.

The plant blooms in summer between July and September. The small purple flowers are grouped in panicles or spikes. The flowering is delicate and adds a decorative touch to the plant. After flowering, it produces small, dry, brown fruits.

These fruits contain the seeds and are dispersed by the wind.

Purple shiso seeds are small, round, and black. They are rich in oil and nutrients, and are commonly used for both cultivation and culinary consumption.

- Uses:

In Asian culture, shiso is a major aromatic and medicinal plant, but it is also a food and ornamental species. Purple shiso is edible and fragrant in all its parts: sprouts, leaves, flowers, and fruits.

Its unique aroma and complex flavor a blend of basil and anise, simultaneously tangy with notes of cumin make it much more than a simple garnish. Fresh leaves are eaten in salads, as well as in sushi, sashimi, and tempura. It is used to flavor many dishes and is common in Japanese, Korean, and Chinese cuisines.

Used in Chinese medicine, perilla offers many virtues and benefits. It is a highly effective variety for treating certain conditions (digestive issues, allergies, etc.). It can also be found in cosmetics, using oil extracted from the seeds (creams, lotions, etc.).
Do not consume without medical advice from a healthcare professional.

The purple hue provides a striking color contrast in the garden. Its leaves add depth and texture to flower beds. It is ideal for summer borders and makes the bright colors of other flowers stand out. It adapts to all garden styles, whether it is a "zen" garden, pot cultivation, or simply in a kitchen garden or herb patch. Its growth is fast, allowing you to achieve a generous volume quickly.

- Planting and Cultivation:

• Prepare a 3-liter pot with horticultural potting soil rich in organic matter.
• Drain the bottom with clay pebbles to prevent root rot and ensure good aeration of the substrate.
• Plant the purple shiso exactly at the level of the collar.
• Lightly firm the soil by hand.
• Water copiously upon planting. Find it a sunny spot.
• It can also be grown directly in the ground in a very bright location.

- Substrate / Soil Type:

Perilla frutescens grows in light, well-aerated, and well-drained soil rich in humus. A universal potting soil mixed with a bit of compost is perfect for optimal growth.

- Exposure / Sunlight:

It enjoys full sun exposure to promote development and coloration. A sunny location guarantees a vigorous plant with numerous, richly colored leaves.

- Temperatures / Hardiness:

Native to Asia, purple shiso tolerates hot temperatures up to 32°C. It is not hardy at all.

- Watering / Water Needs:

Its water requirement is quite high. It needs to be watered regularly—once a day in the height of summer—or the base should be mulched to limit soil evaporation. Avoid stagnant water to prevent root rot.

- Reproduction / Propagation:

Perilla is easily propagated by seeds or cuttings. Cuttings can be taken before the plant flowers, starting in late spring.

- Pests / Predators:

It can be attacked by aphids or whiteflies. Biological control or a light treatment with soapy water is generally sufficient to control these pests.