Perilla

Description

Perilla, also known as shiso, is an Asian herb that belongs to the mint family. It is native to China, India, Japan, Korea, and other parts of Asia. Perilla has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese and Japanese medicine due to its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties. It is also used in cooking, particularly in Korean and Japanese cuisine, as a garnish, seasoning, or wrap for sushi and other dishes.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Perilla has broad, flat, and serrated leaves that are green or purple, depending on the variety. The leaves are usually 2-3 inches long and 1-2 inches wide. The plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide. It has a square stem that is hairy and fragrant. The flowers are small and white or pink, and they bloom in late summer or early fall. The seeds are small and brown.

Care Guide

Perilla is an easy-to-grow herb that can be grown indoors or outdoors. It requires moderate watering, well-draining soil, and full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate temperatures down to 25 degrees Fahrenheit, making it suitable for hardiness zones 9-11. Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.

Common Pests & Diseases

Perilla is susceptible to pests such as aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites. It can also be affected by diseases such as powdery mildew, root rot, and leaf spot. To prevent these problems, keep the plant well-ventilated, avoid overwatering, and remove any infected parts of the plant.

Habitat

Perilla grows in a variety of habitats, including fields, gardens, and waste areas. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. It is commonly found in Asia but has been introduced to other parts of the world, including North America and Europe.

Question and Answer

Q: Can perilla be used as a natural remedy for allergies?

A: Yes, perilla has been shown to have anti-allergic properties and can be used to alleviate symptoms of allergies.

Q: Is perilla safe for pets to eat?

A: No, perilla is not safe for pets to eat, as it can cause digestive problems and even toxicity in some animals.

Q: How can perilla be used in cooking?

A: Perilla can be used as a seasoning, garnish, or wrap for sushi, tempura, salads, and other dishes. It has a unique flavor that is described as minty, anise-like, or cinnamon-like.

Q: Can perilla be grown from seeds?

A: Yes, perilla can be grown from seeds, which should be sown in the spring or summer and kept moist until they germinate.

Related Plants

• Basil
• Mint
• Oregano
• Rosemary
• Sage
• Thyme

References

• “Perilla.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=284208.
• “Perilla (Shiso).” Purdue University Center for New Crops & Plant Products, https://hort.purdue.edu/newcrop/ncnu02/v5-401.html.
• “Perilla frutescens.” Plants of the World Online, Kew Science, http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:453562-1.