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Mint family (Lamiaceae) HERB BOTH Placement Primary: Other Medicinal Aromatic Ornamental

Shiso

Perilla frutescens

Identified By Marcs

Shiso, scientifically known as Perilla frutescens, is a remarkable and versatile aromatic herb belonging to the mint family, Lamiaceae. Native to East Asia, it is widely cultivated for its distinct, complex flavor profile that hints at a combination of mint, basil, licorice, and citrus. The plant features serrated, heart-shaped leaves that can range in color from vibrant green to deep dark purple or burgundy. Beyond its culinary prominence in Japanese, Korean, and Chinese cuisines, shiso is highly valued for its striking ornamental appeal in garden settings, traditional medicinal applications, and rich antioxidant properties. It thrives in warm weather, adapting well to both garden beds and containers.

Also known as: Perilla Beefsteak Plant Chinese Basil Japanese Mint

Toxicity & Safety

Is Shiso toxic to pets?

Yes, toxic to pets.

Perilla frutescens, commonly known as shiso or the beefsteak plant, is considered toxic to various domestic animals, particularly cattle, horses, and potentially cats and dogs if ingested in large quantities. The plant contains specific toxic ketones, such as perilla ketone, which can cause severe respiratory distress, pulmonary edema, lethargy, loss of appetite, and in severe cases, can be fatal to livestock. Pet owners should exercise caution and prevent animals from grazing on or consuming any parts of the shiso plant.

Is Shiso toxic to humans?

No, Shiso is generally safe for humans.

Is Shiso safe during pregnancy?

Generally considered safe during pregnancy.

Growth & Dimensions

Height 30 - 90 cm
Width 30 - 60 cm
Growth Rate Fast
Care Level Easy
Lifespan Annual

Ideal Environment

Temperature 15°C - 30°C
Sunlight Hours 6 - 8 hrs/day
Sun Exposure Full sun
Soil pH 6 - 6.8
Watering Interval 3 - 7 days
Humidity 40.00% - 70.00%
USDA Zone 2 - 11

Temperate and Subtropical Zones

Climate: Shiso flourishes best in warm, temperate to subtropical climates with reliable rainfall and abundant sunshine throughout the primary growing season.

Soils: Loam Sandy loam Well-drained compost-rich soil
Annual Rainfall: 600 - 1200 mm

Native Regions

Japan (JP – Asia)
China (CN – Asia)
Himalayas
Korea (KR – Asia)
India

How to Care for Shiso

How should I handle sunlight requirements?

Provide full sun to partial shade for optimal leaf coloration and vigorous growth. Plants receiving at least six hours of direct sunlight daily develop the richest foliage colors and strongest aromatic profile.

How should I handle soil and fertilization?

Plant in rich, loose, and well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Feed lightly with a balanced organic fertilizer once a month during the active growing season to support lush leaf production.

How should I handle pruning and maintenance?

Pinch back the growing tips of young perilla plants regularly to encourage a bushier, denser growth habit and delay flowering, which can make the leaves bitter.

How should I handle optimal watering practices?

Water your shiso plant consistently to keep the soil evenly moist but never waterlogged. During hot summer months, you may need to water every few days. Allow the top centimeter of soil to dry slightly between watering sessions to prevent root rot while ensuring the foliage remains turgid and healthy.

How to Propagate Shiso

How to propagate Shiso by cutting?

Take healthy stem cuttings about 10 cm long, remove lower leaves, and place them in water or moist potting mix until roots develop.

How to propagate Shiso by seed?

To propagate shiso from seeds, start by filling seed trays with a lightweight, well-draining seed-starting mix. Press the tiny seeds lightly onto the surface of the moist soil, as they require light for optimal germination. Cover the tray loosely with plastic wrap or a humidity dome to retain moisture. Place the tray in a warm, bright indoor location with temperatures consistently around 20 to 22 degrees Celsius. Germination typically occurs within 10 to 21 days. Once seedlings develop several sets of true leaves and are large enough to handle, transplant them individually into larger pots or directly outdoors after all danger of spring frost has completely passed.

Common Diseases & Pests of Shiso

What is Powdery Mildew and how is it treated?

Fungal
Symptoms:

Appearance of white, powdery fungal spots on the upper and lower surfaces of shiso leaves, leading to leaf curling, premature yellowing, and overall reduced vigor if left untreated during humid conditions.

Treatment:

Apply organic neem oil or a suitable copper-based fungicide to affected foliage according to product label instructions. Remove severely infected leaves to halt the spread of the fungal spores.

Prevention:

Ensure adequate spacing between individual plants to promote good air circulation, avoid overhead watering, and plant shiso in locations that receive full, direct sunlight.

Properties & Benefits of Shiso

Bears Fruit Used for Tea/Tisane Aromatic Plant

Uses & Health Benefits

What are the benefits of rich source of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds in Shiso?

Shiso leaves are exceptionally rich in powerful antioxidants, including rosmarinic acid and luteolin, which help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body. These active compounds contribute significantly to reducing inflammation, alleviating seasonal allergy symptoms, supporting healthy immune function, and promoting overall cardiovascular wellness through their protective cellular mechanisms.

Precautions: Individuals with known allergies to plants in the Lamiaceae family should consume shiso cautiously.

Key Nutrients / Compounds

Vitamin C high 45 mg / 100g leaves
Calcium high 200 mg / 100g leaves
Iron moderate 3.5 mg / 100g leaves
Rosmarinic Acid rich in High concentration per 100g leaf tissue
Alpha-linolenic acid rich in Approx 55% of seed oil content

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