85 days. Perilla frutescens. Annual. Open Pollinated, Perilla Green Ao Shiso. The plant produces good yields of cinnamon-flavored green leaves. It is a popular Asian herb variety prized for its complex and aromatic flavor, often described as a mix of mint, basil, cinnamon, clove, anise, citrus, and mild spice. Use it as an edible garnish, chopped in salads, wrapped around sushi, or made into tempura. Chefs sprinkle seeds on salads and rice. Great for rice dishes, pickling, teas, cocktails, or chopped into stir-fries. Used fresh in Japanese, Korean, and other Asian cuisine. Also known as Ao Shiso and Green Ohba Shiso. Heat Tolerant. Drought Tolerant. Excellent choice for herb gardens. A variety from Japan.
Seeds Per Pound: 400,000
Plant Height: 24 to 36" tall
Sunlight: Partial Shade/Full Sun
Planting Method: Indoor Sow/Direct Sow
Planting Instructions
Cold Stratification: Soak in water overnight and then refrigerate for 1 to 2 weeks on a damp paper towel in a plastic bag to improve germination.
Planting Instructions: Sprinkle seeds on soil. Barely cover. Plant seeds ¼" deep. Cover lightly with a thin layer of Miracle-Gro Seed Starting Mix and water gently. It germinates best with light exposure.
Plant Thinning: Thin plants to 6 to 12" apart, rows about 10 to 18" apart.
Soil Facts: Requires a well-prepared, fertile, well-drained soil.
Fertilizer: Use a general-purpose fertilizer when preparing the soil.
Germination: 14 to 21 days (sometimes longer) at 65 to 75 F. Requires 8 weeks for full maturity.