Climate matters. This page is a practical baseline. Confirm cultivar, local frost/heat conditions, mature size and regional restrictions before planting.
Shiso — Growing reference
| Scientific name | Perilla frutescens |
|---|---|
| Seed germination (days) | 7–14 |
| Soil temperature for germination (°C) | 18.3–23.9 |
| First harvest or flowering (days) | 60–80 |
| Measured from | Seed |
| Plant spacing (cm) | 30.5–45.7 |
| Mature height (cm) | 61–91.4 |
| Mature spread (cm) | 30.5–45.7 |
| USDA hardiness zones | 3–11 |
| Light | Full sun |
| Water | Moderate |
| Sowing method | Direct sow |
Growing directions
Refrigerate seeds for a few days before sowing to break dormancy, then surface-sow or cover with 1/8 in of soil after the last frost. Grow in rich, moist, well-drained soil in full sun; shiso tolerates partial shade but growth is less vigorous. Pinch flower spikes promptly to extend leaf production, or allow a few to go to seed for next year's volunteer plants. Harvest the large, ruffled leaves at any stage; young leaves are most tender and aromatic for fresh use.
Source and local conditions
Typical planning ranges from OpenPlantDB (CC0). Cultivar, climate, season and growing method can change these values. Confirm the seed label and local guidance before planting.
Source & verification
OpenPlantDB · CC0