Perilla frutescens - Shiso, Shishi Herb, Beefsteak Plant


Perilla frutescens - Shiso, Shishi Herb, Beefsteak Plant

Small plant 2-5 ftSemi-shadeFull sunRegular waterEdible plantSpice or herb plantSubtropical or temperate zone plant. Mature plant cold hardy at least to 30s F for a short time

This unique plant is originally used in real Japanese sushi serving (instead of plastic "grass" used now in Western world).
Shiso is a perennial plant that may be cultivated as an annual in temperate climates. The Japanese name shiso is a loan word from Chinese zisu that means purple. Bunches of green shiso leaves packaged in styrofoam trays are now familiar sights on the supermarket shelves in Japan, as well as in Japanese food markets in the West. The oilseed crop, is the source of perilla oil. It is used as an ingredient in Korean cuisine, both "wild sesame'" (deulggae), and "sesame leaves". It is known in Japan as egoma. The red perilla has red leaves and used mostly in fish stews in China. Koreans make pickled "wild sesame" perilla leaves with red chili powder and soy sauce. Oil extracted from P. frutescens var. frutescens is still used to cover cookies in rural areas of Korea. Sometimes, the seeds are ground and added to soup for seasoning in Korea. Parts of the plants eaten are the leaves, flower and buds from the flower stalks, fruits and seeds, and sprouts. Japanese use green shiso leaves raw with sashimi. Dried leaves are also infused to make tea.
the plant is also called rattlesnake weed, because the sound the dried stalks make when disturbed along the footpath is reminiscent of the rattlesnake rattling sound.

Recommended Fertilizer: SUNSHINE Robusta - Rapid Growth Booster
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Grown in
6"/1 gal pot
 

Plant type
Fruit or edible plant, Spice or herb plant
Fruit type
Fruit or edible plant
Plant form ?
Small shrub 2-5 ft
Mature height ?
2-5 ft tall
Sun exposure
Sun, Semi-Shade
USDA zone ?
Zone 9-11.
Hardiness ?
Light freezing, 30°F for short period of time, mature plants. Young plants must be protected.
Watering
Regular watering
Growing conditions
Outdoors in the suitable USDA zone, Small backyard, Pot-growing, Indoors
More information

This item is certified for shipping to all states/territories, including California (with phytocertificate), Puerto Rico (with phytocertificate), US VI (with phytocertificate), Texas, Louisiana, Arizona.

Perilla frutescens - Shiso, Shishi Herb, Beefsteak Plant: Planting and Care Instructions

Plant Overview

Growth habit: This is a small herbaceous plant, growing between 2 and 5 feet. It is great for flower beds, pots, or small garden spots.

Growing conditions: This plant can be grown outdoors in the suitable USDA zone. It is well-suited for small backyards, pots, or indoor spaces with enough light.

Watering: This plant requires regular watering. Water it when the top layer of soil begins to dry out.

Sun exposure: This plant grows well in both full sun and semi-shade. If kept indoors, give it as much light as possible for best growth.

USDA Zone: Zone 9-11. The USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map categorizes North America into zones based on average annual minimum winter temperatures, each differing by 10 °F. This map serves as a basic guide for selecting appropriate plants for a region. However, it's not definitive; plant varieties vary in cold tolerance, and young plants typically need more protection. Additionally, local microclimates, like sheltered areas or sunny spots, can influence plant health and survivability beyond the general zone recommendation.

Hardiness: Light freezing, 30°F for short period of time, mature plants. Young plants must be protected. Plant hardiness indicates the coldest temperature a mature plant can endure briefly while staying healthy. This rating is a guideline and can vary among varieties of the same species. Young plants often need more cold protection. Additionally, a plant's survival can be enhanced by the microclimate of its location, which may provide shelter from wind or extra warmth, allowing it to thrive beyond its typical hardiness range.

Plant type: This is a fruit tree. With proper care, it will grow tasty delicious delicious fruits. It is also used as a spice or herb.

Outdoor planting

Select a planting spot that fits the plant sun and moisture needs. Loosen the soil and mix in compost or organic matter to improve poor soil. Dig a hole just slightly larger than the root ball and avoid planting deeper than it was before. For better drainage, the top of the root ball can sit slightly above the surrounding soil. Provide temporary shade at first if conditions are hot or sunny. Water regularly and monitor soil moisture until the plant is well rooted. nAdd mulch around the base to keep the soil moist and reduce weeds. Shape the mulch to form a shallow basin for water, but keep mulch away from the stem.

Indoor planting

Use a container with drainage holes and a well-draining potting mix. Position the plant so that the top of the root ball is level with the surface of the soil - avoid planting too deep. A slow-release fertilizer can be mixed into the soil at planting time to support healthy growth. Place the plant in a location that matches its light needs, and water according to its care requirements. Be careful not to overwater, and ensure good airflow around the plant to reduce the risk of pests and disease.

Protecting Plants in Winter

When it gets cold, some plants need extra help. You can move potted plants indoors or under a covered patio. Young plants need extra protection because they are more sensitive to cold and less established. For plants in the ground, use frost cloth to keep them warm. Stop using fertilizer in late fall so plants can rest. Try to place plants in areas protected from cold wind, rain, and frost.

Cold Hardiness and Microclimates

USDA zone and hardiness are only general guidelines. Actual cold tolerance can vary based on plant variety and local conditions. Even small differences between varieties can matter. Also, warmer spots in your yard—like near a wall or fence—can help plants survive cold nights. These little warm areas are called microclimates, and they make a big difference.

Outdoor and indoor planting instructions