Contents
Description
Perilla Frutescens Var. Crispa, commonly known as Shiso or Japanese Basil, is a herbaceous annual plant that belongs to the mint family, Lamiaceae. It is native to China, India, Japan, and Southeast Asia. The plant grows up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide, with broad leaves that are green, purple, or red. The leaves have a unique taste and aroma, which is a combination of mint, basil, and anise. Perilla Frutescens Var. Crispa is widely cultivated as a culinary herb, and its leaves are used in salads, sushi, and other dishes. It is also used in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic, and anti-bacterial properties.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Tracheophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Genus: | Perilla |
| Species: | Perilla Frutescens |
| Variety: | Crispa |
Appearance
The leaves of Perilla Frutescens Var. Crispa are large, wrinkled, and ovate to lanceolate in shape. They are 2-6 inches long and 1-4 inches wide, with serrated edges. The leaves can be green, purple, or red, depending on the variety. The stem of the plant is square and hairy, and it grows up to 3 feet tall. The flowers are small and white or pink, and they bloom in late summer to early fall. The plant is an annual, and it dies after producing seeds.
Care Guide
Perilla Frutescens Var. Crispa is easy to grow and care for. Here are some tips:
- Water: The plant prefers moist but well-drained soil. Water it regularly, especially during dry spells.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
- Soil: The plant prefers rich, loamy soil with a pH of 6.0-7.0. It can tolerate slightly acidic or alkaline soil.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but it may not grow as vigorously.
- Hardiness Zones: Perilla Frutescens Var. Crispa is hardy in USDA zones 3-11. It prefers a warm climate, and it may not survive freezing temperatures.
Common Pests & Diseases
Perilla Frutescens Var. Crispa is relatively pest and disease resistant. However, it may be susceptible to the following:
- Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects feed on the sap of the plant, causing stunted growth and yellowing leaves. Use insecticidal soap to control them.
- Spider mites: These tiny pests suck the sap from the leaves of the plant, causing them to turn yellow and fall off. Use a miticide to control them.
- Downy mildew: This fungal disease causes yellowing and wilting of the leaves, and it can spread quickly in humid weather. Use a fungicide to control it.
Habitat
Perilla Frutescens Var. Crispa is native to China, India, Japan, and Southeast Asia. It grows in sunny or partially shaded areas, such as fields, hillsides, and forest edges. It prefers warm, humid climates and well-drained soil.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Perilla Frutescens Var. Crispa an annual or perennial plant?
A: Perilla Frutescens Var. Crispa is an annual plant, which means it completes its life cycle in one growing season.
Q: What are the health benefits of Perilla Frutescens Var. Crispa?
A: Perilla Frutescens Var. Crispa is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. It has anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic, and anti-bacterial properties that can help improve digestion, boost the immune system, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Q: How do you propagate Perilla Frutescens Var. Crispa?
A: Perilla Frutescens Var. Crispa can be propagated from seeds or cuttings. Sow the seeds indoors in early spring, and transplant them outdoors after the last frost. Take cuttings from mature plants in late summer, and root them in water or soil.
Q: Can Perilla Frutescens Var. Crispa be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Perilla Frutescens Var. Crispa can be grown indoors in a sunny location. Use a well-draining potting mix, and water the plant regularly. Pinch back the tips to encourage bushy growth.
Related Plants
- Perilla Frutescens
- Perilla Frutescens Var. Acuta
- Perilla Frutescens Var. Purpurascens
- Perilla Frutescens Var. Frutescens
References
- “Perilla Frutescens.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 13, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=279945&isprofile=1
- “Perilla.” Cornell University. Accessed August 13, 2021. https://hort.cals.cornell.edu/content/perilla
- “Perilla (Shiso).” University of Florida. Accessed August 13, 2021. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/mv135
