Shiso Red (perilla) (150 seeds)

Shiso - Red (Perilla)

Shiso 'Red', also known as perilla, is a richly coloured aromatic annual herb from the mint family with a long history of culinary and medicinal use across Asian traditions. The deep burgundy-red leaves deliver a bold, distinctive flavour combining mint, basil, and subtle anise notes, widely used in Japanese cuisine for pickling umeboshi plums, colouring rice dishes, and as a fresh garnish for sushi and salads. A herb with genuine cultural heritage and striking visual appeal that performs well in warm New Zealand conditions.

Frost-sensitive and warmth-loving, 'Red' shiso prefers full sun and well-drained soil with regular watering, avoiding waterlogging at all times. Seeds require light to germinate, so surface sow and keep consistently moist. Soaking seeds for 24 hours before sowing can help improve germination rates and speed up establishment.

Planting Season: Spring, Summer
Sow: Surface sow, do not cover; soak seeds 24 hours before sowing
Spacing: 30–40 cm apart
Height: 60–90 cm
Germination: 14–21 days at 21°C; requires light; can be slow
Harvest: 60–70 days; pick leaves regularly as needed
Flavour: Bold mint and basil with subtle anise notes

150 seeds