Perilla 'Purple Shiso

Perilla

Zone 6b Save Garden

🌱 60d to harvest Upright

Velvety, ink-purple leaves unfurl with a cool, aromatic snap—Perilla ‘Purple Shiso’ is a garden standout for its richly saturated…

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Apr 4th
Last Frost	Apr 25th
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	Jun 6th
Harvest Begins	Aug 5th
Harvest Ends	Oct 16th

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	60
Sun Requirements	Full 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)	10

Recommended Companions

Caribbean Tree Basil Basil

Lemon Sweet Clove Basil

Frequently Asked Questions

What pest or disease commonly affects Perilla frutescens (Purple Shiso), and how can I control it?

Watch for aphids and whiteflies, which cluster on the soft new growth of Perilla frutescens and can stunt plants. Hose them off early, then spray with insecticidal soap (especially the undersides) every 5–7 days until they’re gone. If you see gray, wet-looking leaf spots, remove affected leaves and avoid overhead watering to reduce spread.

How often should I water Perilla frutescens during its main growing phase?

During active growth (roughly weeks 3–8), keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged—aim for watering about once or twice per week depending on heat, with a deeper soak each time. Let the top 1 inch of soil dry before watering again, since Perilla frutescens dislikes persistently soggy conditions that can encourage leaf spotting.

How do I know when Purple Shiso (Perilla frutescens) is ready to harvest?

Start harvesting when plants are about 8–12 inches tall and leaves are fully developed—typically around 60 days after sowing. Pick individual leaves as they reach usable size, or harvest in frequent light cuttings by removing the top growth to encourage side branching for more foliage.

Velvety, ink-purple leaves unfurl with a cool, aromatic snap—Perilla ‘Purple Shiso’ is a garden standout for its richly saturated color and deeply fragrant presence. The foliage is tender yet substantial, with a softly crinkled, velour-like texture that holds its character through harvests. Grow it for bold flavor-forward leaf use in fresh garnishes and aromatic sauces, and for pickling-style preparations where its signature purple sheen and fragrance shine.

Sowing Tips

Transplant Conditions

Wait until soil reaches 60°F and nights stay above 50°F before moving outdoors. Harden off for 10 days first.

Expert Note

Start perilla warm indoors and wait for consistently mild nights, since cold slows growth and reduces leaf quality.