Red Shiso - Herb Seed

Red Shiso, also known as Perilla frutescens, is a vibrant, aromatic herb that is widely used in Asian cuisine, particularly in Japan and Korea. With its striking red-purple leaves and distinct flavor, Red Shiso adds both color and complexity to dishes. It is often used fresh in salads, sushi, and as a garnish, or it can be pickled for a tangy, flavorful addition to various meals.

Key Benefits

• Culinary Uses: Red Shiso leaves are commonly used to flavor dishes such as sushi, salads, soups, and pickled vegetables. The leaves have a unique flavor that blends mint, basil, and a slight aniseed taste.
• Health Benefits: Rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and essential oils, Red Shiso is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to support digestive health.
• Medicinal Properties: Traditionally, Red Shiso has been used to alleviate nausea, improve circulation, and boost the immune system.
• Aesthetic Appeal: With its deep purple leaves, Red Shiso adds visual interest and contrast to herb gardens and edible landscapes.

Variety Features

• Appearance: The Red Shiso plant features beautiful, dark red to purple leaves, which add a striking pop of color to any garden. The plant can grow up to 2–3 feet (60–90 cm) tall and produces small, inconspicuous flowers in late summer.
• Flavor: The leaves of Red Shiso have a unique flavor profile, with hints of mint, basil, and a slightly peppery note, making it ideal for adding complexity to various dishes.

Planting Instructions

Planting Season

• Best Time to Plant: Start Red Shiso seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before the last expected frost. Alternatively, you can plant them directly outdoors after the frost has passed and the soil has warmed.
• Temperature: Red Shiso thrives in warm temperatures, ideally between 65°F and 75°F (18°C–24°C).

Planting Details

• Planting Depth: Sow seeds about 1/8 to 1/4 inch (3–6 mm) deep in well-draining soil.
• Spacing: Space Red Shiso plants about 12–18 inches (30–45 cm) apart, as they tend to spread out during growth.
• Soil Requirements: Red Shiso grows best in rich, well-drained soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0–7.0).
• Sunlight: Red Shiso prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade, especially in hotter climates.

Care Instructions

• Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist, but avoid waterlogging. Red Shiso plants prefer evenly moist soil.
• Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season to support healthy growth. Compost or organic matter can also be added to improve soil fertility.
• Pruning: Pinch back the growing tips to encourage bushier growth. Remove any spent flowers to prevent the plant from going to seed prematurely.
• Pests: Red Shiso is relatively pest-resistant but can sometimes attract aphids or spider mites. Use organic insecticidal soap if needed.

Harvesting

• When to Harvest: Begin harvesting Red Shiso leaves once the plant has established itself and is producing enough foliage. This typically occurs 6–8 weeks after planting.
• Method: Use scissors or garden shears to cut the leaves. Harvest leaves individually or trim the top 1/3 of the plant to encourage more branching and continuous growth.
• Post-Harvest: Fresh Red Shiso leaves can be used immediately in recipes or stored in the refrigerator for a few days. Alternatively, the leaves can be dried or pickled for later use.

Storage Tips

• Drying: To dry Red Shiso leaves, hang them upside down in a well-ventilated area or use a dehydrator. Once dried, store the leaves in an airtight container away from direct sunlight.
• Storage: Fresh Red Shiso leaves can be stored in the fridge wrapped in a damp paper towel for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing or pickling the leaves.

Culinary Uses

• Sushi: Red Shiso leaves are often used as a garnish or wrapper for sushi rolls, imparting a distinct flavor and color.
• Pickling: In Japan, Red Shiso leaves are commonly used to pickle umeboshi (pickled plums), imparting a deep red color and tangy flavor to the fruit.
• Salads and Soups: The leaves can be torn and added fresh to salads or soups, where their flavor complements other ingredients.
• Beverages: In Korea, Red Shiso leaves are sometimes used to make refreshing herbal drinks and teas.

Conclusion

Red Shiso is an easy-to-grow herb that offers both culinary and ornamental value. Whether used fresh in recipes or dried for later use, Red Shiso adds a unique flavor and striking color to your dishes. By following simple planting and care instructions, you can enjoy this herb's benefits all season long.