La Tia To - Vietnamese Perilla

La Tia To, or Vietnamese Perilla (Perilla frutescens var. crispa), is a vibrant and aromatic herb widely used in Southeast Asian cuisine. With its striking purple-green leaves, La Tia To is known for its distinct flavor profile that combines hints of mint, basil, and anise. It adds a refreshing, aromatic twist to many traditional Vietnamese dishes and is often found in soups, salads, and grilled meat dishes.

Key Benefits

• Culinary Uses: La Tia To leaves are a staple in Vietnamese cooking, where they are used to enhance the flavor of fresh spring rolls, pho, and various salads. The herb’s aromatic flavor pairs well with fish, meats, and tofu.
• Health Benefits: This herb is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. It is known for its digestive benefits and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Aesthetic Appeal: La Tia To has beautiful deep purple and green leaves that create an eye-catching contrast in any garden or edible landscape.

Variety Features

• Appearance: La Tia To has vibrant purple and green leaves that are broad, slightly ruffled, and pointed. It grows to a height of about 12–18 inches (30–45 cm) and produces small, inconspicuous flowers in the summer.
• Flavor: The leaves offer a complex, aromatic flavor with a blend of mint, basil, and anise, making it a unique addition to both savory and fresh dishes.

Planting Instructions

Planting Season

• Best Time to Plant: Start seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before the last expected frost or sow them directly outdoors once the soil has warmed up and the frost risk has passed.
• Temperature: Vietnamese Perilla grows best in temperatures ranging from 65°F to 75°F (18°C–24°C).

Planting Details

• Planting Depth: Sow seeds 1/8 inch (3 mm) deep in rich, well-draining soil.
• Spacing: Space plants 12–18 inches (30–45 cm) apart to allow for proper air circulation and growth.
• Soil Requirements: Vietnamese Perilla prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil with good drainage and plenty of organic matter.
• Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade is ideal. In hotter climates, some afternoon shade can help prevent leaf burn.

Care Instructions

• Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Ensure good drainage to avoid root rot, especially during the growing season.
• Fertilization: Use an all-purpose fertilizer or compost every 4–6 weeks during the growing season to promote strong, healthy growth.
• Pruning: Regularly pinch back the tips of the stems to encourage a bushier, fuller plant. Removing spent flowers will also help the plant focus on leaf production.
• Pests: La Tia To is relatively pest-resistant, but aphids and whiteflies can sometimes be an issue. Treat any infestations with organic insecticidal soap if necessary.

Harvesting

• When to Harvest: Start harvesting leaves once the plant is well-established and has plenty of foliage, usually 6–8 weeks after planting.
• Method: Snip leaves as needed with scissors or garden shears, starting from the outer leaves to encourage continued growth. Harvest young leaves for the best flavor.
• Post-Harvest: Fresh leaves can be used immediately in cooking. For longer storage, wrap them in a damp paper towel and refrigerate them for up to a week.

Storage Tips

• Drying: Drying La Tia To leaves can help preserve their flavor. Hang the stems upside down in a well-ventilated area, and once the leaves are dry, store them in an airtight container.
• Refrigeration: To keep fresh leaves longer, store them wrapped in a damp paper towel inside a sealed bag or container in the refrigerator.

Culinary Uses

• Fresh Spring Rolls: Add La Tia To leaves to fresh Vietnamese spring rolls for a burst of flavor.
• Pho: This herb is commonly used as a garnish in pho, giving the dish a fresh and aromatic taste.
• Grilled Meats: Pair La Tia To with grilled meats, especially pork or beef, to complement the savory flavors with a touch of freshness.
• Salads: Tear the leaves into small pieces and mix with other herbs and vegetables to create a refreshing salad.
• Beverages: Infuse La Tia To leaves in hot water for a flavorful herbal tea, or add them to cocktails for a minty, anise-like twist.

Conclusion

La Tia To, or Vietnamese Perilla, is a unique and aromatic herb that enhances many Southeast Asian dishes. With its striking purple-green leaves and aromatic flavor, it is not only a flavorful addition to your culinary repertoire but also an attractive plant for your garden. Easy to grow with simple care instructions, this herb offers a multitude of uses and health benefits, making it a must-have for any herb garden or kitchen garden enthusiast.