Britton

Perilla

Zone 7b Save Garden

🌱 45d to harvest Upright

Aromatic and richly fragrant from the first pinch, Britton perilla unfolds with deep, velvety leaves that feel almost velour-soft…

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Mar 13th
Last Frost	Apr 10th
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	Jun 5th
Harvest Begins	Jul 20th
Harvest Ends	Oct 28th

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	45
Sun Requirements	Part Sun
Growth Habit	Upright
Support Needed	None
Planting Depth	Normal
Germination Temp (°F)	70
Min Soil Temp (°F)	55
Min Night Temp (°F)	35
Harden Off (days)	7

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I manage damping-off or root rot in Britton plants if seedlings start wilting at the soil line?

Britton seedlings are prone to damping-off when the potting mix stays constantly wet and cool. Water only when the top 1/2 inch of mix feels dry, then water thoroughly and let excess drain; avoid misting the stem area. If you see seedlings collapsing, remove affected plants, improve airflow, and consider a fresh sterile seed-starting mix for any re-sowing.

During Britton’s main growing phase, how often should I water and how moist should the soil stay?

Once Britton is established, keep soil evenly moist but not soggy: aim for the top inch to dry slightly between waterings. In warm weather this typically means watering about every 2–4 days, but check moisture by feel rather than the calendar. Use deep watering so moisture reaches the root zone, and stop if water begins to pool or the soil stays wet below the surface.

What signs tell me Britton is ready to harvest at about 45 days?

Harvest Britton when plants reach their expected 45-day maturity and the edible part is fully developed—use the variety’s target size and color as your guide. For most Britton types, look for firmness and consistent color across the crop, with minimal softness or greening where it shouldn’t be. If you’re unsure, harvest one test plant early-morning and confirm the interior is fully formed before pulling the rest.

Aromatic and richly fragrant from the first pinch, Britton perilla unfolds with deep, velvety leaves that feel almost velour-soft to the touch. Expect a bold, distinctive flavor with anise-cool lift and a savory herbal depth that shines in fresh garnishes and vibrant herb-forward sauces, as well as pickling-style preparations. Grow it for a lush, upright habit that delivers steady leaf harvests in as little as 45 days, turning beds and containers into fragrant living foliage.

Sowing Tips

Transplant Conditions

Wait until soil reaches 55°F and nights stay above 35°F before moving outdoors. Harden off for 7 days first.

Expert Note

Start perilla indoors in warm conditions, then transplant only after nights are reliably mild to prevent slow, stressed growth.