shiso
Perilla frutescens or beefsteak plant
Shiso is a versatile culinary herb, widely used in Asian cooking, sushi and salads. The crinkled, lime-green leaves (similar to Coleus) and white-spired flowers are both edible, with a minty, basil-like flavour and hints of cumin, clove, and and citrus.
How to care for shiso:
Plant in a sunny or lightly shaded spot with fertile, well-drained soil, spacing plants around 30cm (12in) apart to allow good airflow and healthy growth. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, especially during dry spells, and mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Regular feeding with a balanced fertiliser will encourage bushy growth and vibrant leaves.
Harvest leaves regularly from the top down once the plant is well established to promote branching and prevent it from flowering too early. Pinch out flower buds if you want to extend the leaf-harvesting period, as flowering can make the leaves bitter. Shiso can be cut continually throughout the growing season, with larger leaves picked as needed for cooking or fresh use, and the plant will keep producing until the first frosts.
Harvest leaves regularly from the top down once the plant is well established to promote branching and prevent it from flowering too early. Pinch out flower buds if you want to extend the leaf-harvesting period, as flowering can make the leaves bitter. Shiso can be cut continually throughout the growing season, with larger leaves picked as needed for cooking or fresh use, and the plant will keep producing until the first frosts.
Sowing instructions:
Sow early in spring, indoors, at approx 70°F (21°C) and place in a shady location. Germination can take up to 3 weeks. Transplant seedlings when large enough to handle in individual pots and grow on before hardening off and planting out to 30cm (12in) apart after the risk of frost has passed. Alternatively. Sow direct, 1-2 seeds per inch, into a well-prepared seed bed in rows 45cm (18in) apart after the last frosts. Thin to 6-12in apart.
Eventual height:
0.8m
Eventual spread:
0.3m
Position:
Full sun / light shade
Rate of growth:
Fast-growing
Soil:
Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil
Hardiness:
Frost tender
approx 100 seeds
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