Red

Shiso

Zone 4b Save Garden

🌱 55d to harvest Upright

Velvety, wine-red shiso leaves unfurl with a vivid, almost jewel-like sheen, releasing a sweet, aromatic perfume that lingers in …

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Apr 15th
Last Frost	May 13th
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	Jun 3rd
Harvest Begins	Jul 28th
Harvest Ends	Sep 27th

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	55
Sun Requirements	Part Sun
Growth Habit	Upright
Support Needed	None
Planting Depth	Normal
Germination Temp (°F)	70
Min Soil Temp (°F)	60
Min Night Temp (°F)	50
Harden Off (days)	7

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African Blue Basil Basil

Frequently Asked Questions

What pest or disease commonly affects Perilla frutescens (red perilla), and how can I manage it?

Red perilla (Perilla frutescens) is prone to leaf spot and fungal problems when foliage stays wet, especially in humid, crowded plantings. Water at the soil line, thin plants for airflow, and remove infected leaves as soon as you see spots. If leaf spot keeps spreading, use a labeled copper-based fungicide and repeat according to the product label, avoiding spraying during peak heat.

How often should I water red perilla during its main growth period?

During active growth, keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged—aim for even moisture rather than letting it swing dry then soggy. In typical home gardens, this often means watering about 2–3 times per week, increasing frequency during hot, windy weather. The best check is the top 1 inch of soil: if it’s dry at that depth, water thoroughly until excess drains.

How do I know when red perilla is ready to harvest (Perilla frutescens var. crispa)?

Harvest when plants reach about 8–12 inches tall and leaves are fully expanded, typically around 50–60 days after sowing. For the best flavor and texture, pick outer leaves regularly (starting earlier for baby leaves) and avoid removing more than about one-third of the plant at a time. If leaves become tough or the plant starts sending up flowering stems, begin harvesting more frequently to maintain tender leaf quality.

Velvety, wine-red shiso leaves unfurl with a vivid, almost jewel-like sheen, releasing a sweet, aromatic perfume that lingers in the garden air. “Red” forms a compact, bushy clump of crisp, finely crinkled foliage—tender yet richly textured—ideal for fresh use and for brightening vinegars, sauces, and pickled specialties. Grow it for its striking color and signature fragrance, then let its bold crimson leaves become your most beautiful, flavor-forward harvest at day 55.

Sowing Tips

Transplant Conditions

Wait until soil reaches 60°F and nights stay above 50°F before moving outdoors. Harden off for 7 days first.

Expert Note

Start indoors for earlier leaf growth, then transplant after nights stay reliably warm to prevent slow growth or stalling.

Red

Planting Schedule

Crop Dates

Crop Details

Recommended Companions

Frequently Asked Questions