Lamiaceae
Shiso: Aromatic Plant
Perilla frutescens
Shiso is an easy-to-grow herb suitable even for beginners. It prefers warm conditions, full to partial sun, and well-drained soil. It is easily grown from seeds sown in warm soil. It requires regular watering without water stress. It has good drought and heat resistance. Indoor cultivation is possible in a bright location.
Every 7 days
Partial shade
7° - °C
% - %
Categories
What is Shiso?
Shiso (Perilla frutescens) is a easy-care plant from the Lamiaceae family. Shiso (Perilla frutescens) is an annual aromatic herb from the Lamiaceae family, native to Asia. The plant reaches a height of 18-48 inches (45-120 cm) and features decorative, soft leaves that are green or purple depending on the variety. The leaves have a characteristic aroma reminiscent of a comb...
Shiso grows up to 1.2m, spread of 45cm, watering every 7 days. It is suitable for indoor environments and safe for pets.
Unlike many tropical plants, Shiso tolerates watering mistakes. Best for beginners. Unlike many popular species, Shiso is safe to keep around pets. Without adequate drainage, root rot can develop within 14 days.
How to Care for Shiso?
TLDR: Shiso needs Partial shade, watering every 7 days, and temperatures between 7-30°C with 40-70% humidity.
How Often Should You Water Shiso?
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. In hot weather, water more frequently. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
How Much Light Does Shiso Need?
Shiso grows best in a sunny location. In hot regions, it also tolerates light shade. At least 2 hours of direct sun per day is sufficient; less light leads to slower growth and less vibrant coloring.
What Is the Best Soil for Shiso?
Prefers rich, well-drained soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH (5.5-6.5). Soil enriched with compost is ideal. It also grows in average fertile soil as long as it is well-drained.
What Pot Should You Use for Shiso?
When growing in pots, use containers with a diameter of at least 6 inches (15 cm) with a drainage hole and a slightly acidic substrate mixed with compost.
Care Schedule
Fertilize
Every 24 days
What Is Shiso and Where Does It Come From?
Shiso (Perilla frutescens) is an annual aromatic herb from the Lamiaceae family, native to Asia. The plant reaches a height of 18-48 inches (45-120 cm) and features decorative, soft leaves that are green or purple depending on the variety. The leaves have a characteristic aroma reminiscent of a combination of mint, anise, and lemon. During summer and fall, the plant produces white to light purple flowers in spiked inflorescences. It propagates easily by seed and often self-seeds.
How Big Does Shiso Grow?
TLDR: Shiso can reach up to 1.2m tall with Fast growth rate.
Max height
1.2m
Spread
45cm
Growth rate
Fast
Foliage
Deciduous
Plant Uses
Edible
Can be consumed
Aromatic
Pleasant fragrance
Medicinal
Medicinal properties
Ornamental
Great for decoration
Medicinal Uses
- Relief from allergic rhinitis
- Respiratory system support
- Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects
- Digestive support
Culinary Uses
- Fresh leaves in salads
- Flavoring for soups and dishes (Japanese cuisine)
- Pickling and marinades
- Herbal tea made from leaves
Is your plant showing symptoms?
Click on the symptom to discover possible causes:
What Diseases Commonly Affect Shiso?
TLDR: Shiso is susceptible to 4 known diseases. Monitor regularly for early detection.
Downy Mildew
Downy mildew is a fungal-like disease caused by oomycetes (water molds) that thrives in cool, wet conditions. It affects a wide range of plants, causing yellowing leaves with fuzzy white-gray growth underneath, leading to defoliation and reduced yields if left untreated.
Rust
Rust is a common fungal disease caused by fungi in the order Pucciniales that affects a wide variety of plants. The disease gets its name from the characteristic orange, yellow, or reddish-brown pustules that appear on leaves, resembling metal rust. This obligate fungal parasite requires living plants to survive and can cause significant economic losses in agricultural crops.
Damping Off
Damping off is a soil-borne fungal disease that affects seeds and young seedlings, causing rotting of stem and root tissues at and below the soil line. It is caused by several fungi including Pythium, Rhizoctonia, Fusarium, and Phytophthora. The disease thrives in cold, wet conditions with poor air circulation.
Aphids
Aphids are small, soft-bodied, pear-shaped insects (1/16 to 1/8 inch long) that feed by sucking nutrient-rich sap from plants. They reproduce rapidly and can quickly weaken plants, causing distorted growth and transmitting plant viruses. Aphids come in various colors including green, black, red, yellow, brown, and gray. They secrete honeydew, a sticky substance that attracts ants and encourages sooty mold growth.
Compare with similar plants
| Attribute | Difficulty | Light | Watering | Pet Safe |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Field Maple | Easy | Bright indirect | 14d | â |
| Silver Birch | Easy | Direct sun | 14d | â |
| Common Blanketflower | Easy | Direct sun | 10d | â |
| Cushion Bush | Easy | Direct sun | 14d | â |
