Shiso: Green - Seeds & Bulbs

Shiso, Perilla
Green (Aoshiso)
(Perilla frutescens)

Called 'Ohba' at sushi bars - an absolute must for herb gardeners! Incredible flavor has been described as curry-like and a combination of cumin, cilantro and parsley with a hint of cinnamon. The flavor is stronger than red shiso (akashiso), primarily used to wrap sushi but leaves are a nice addition to mesclun salad mixes and especially good sprinkled over cucumbers, cabbage or fish. Add chopped leaves to pestos. The flowers are edible, and leaves and flowers make a fragrant tea. Crushed leaves smell like lemon balm. Also called Japanese basil or mint. Medicinal herb books claim shiso has antibiotic qualities. Excellent in containers. Tolerates shade.

Plant Type: Annual
When to Sow Outside: After the last spring frost.
When to Sow Inside: Four weeks before last spring frost. Sowing outside is easiest.
Seed Depth: 1/4", or lightly pressed in to the surface of the soil
Seed Spacing: 2"
Days to Emerge: 5 to 15
Thinning: When 1" tall, thin to 12" apart.