Shiso: The Vibrant Japanese Herb You Need to Grow

Shiso, also known as perilla leaf or Japanese basil, is a stunning and aromatic herb that brings authentic flavor to your kitchen garden. With its distinctive heart-shaped leaves and bold taste, this plant is a favorite among culinary enthusiasts and home gardeners alike.

What Is Shiso?

Shiso is a leafy herb native to East Asia, particularly prized in Japanese cuisine. The green variety is the classic choice, featuring bright, vibrant foliage and a refreshing flavor profile. Unlike traditional basil, shiso has a complex taste—slightly minty, with hints of anise and a subtle peppery finish. It's commonly used in sushi, sashimi, tempura, and as a garnish for soups and salads.

Growing Shiso in Your Garden

Shiso thrives in warm weather and prefers partial shade to full sun. Plant seeds or seedlings in well-draining soil enriched with organic matter. Space plants about 12 inches apart to allow room for growth. Water regularly to keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. The plant typically reaches 2 to 3 feet tall and produces abundant leaves throughout the growing season.

This herb is relatively low-maintenance and adapts well to container gardening, making it perfect for patios or small spaces. Pinch off flower buds to encourage leaf production and extend your harvest.

Harvesting and Using Shiso

Begin harvesting leaves once the plant is established, typically 6 to 8 weeks after planting. Pick leaves from the top of the plant to promote bushier growth. Fresh shiso leaves are best used immediately, though they can be refrigerated for a few days or frozen for later use.

Use shiso to elevate your cooking—wrap it around sushi rolls, tear it over fresh fish, or add it to cocktails for an herbaceous twist. The leaves also make a beautiful, edible garnish that impresses dinner guests.

Why Grow Green Shiso?

Green shiso is the traditional choice for authentic Japanese cooking and offers a lighter, more delicate appearance in your garden. It's versatile, reliable, and a gateway to exploring Japanese culinary traditions at home. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting out, green shiso is a rewarding plant that delivers both beauty and exceptional flavor.

In Summary

Green Shiso (Perilla frutescens), also called Perilla Leaf and Japanese Basil, is an herb in the mint family with large, bright green, wrinkled, serrated leaves. Not as spicy as Red Shiso. Used extensively in Japanese cuisine, it has a fresh minty-basil flavor with notes of clove and cumin, and a bitter, astringent finish. Pairs well with fish, rice, noodles, and vegetables, especially cucumbers. Also a medicinal herb with antioxidant, anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antiseptic properties. Its rhizome root can become invasive, so best grown in a container.

• Mint-basil-clove-cumin flavor
• Full sun
• Days to germinate (sprout): 7-21 days
• Days to maturity: 80-85 days

Good companion plants: Arugula, Basil, Bok Choy, Parsley, Tomato