Shiso | Perilla frutescens or Beefsteak Plant

A versatile culinary herb widely used in Asian cooking, sushi and salads. The crinkled, lime-green leaves (similar to Coleus) and white-spired flowers are both edible, with a minty, basil-like flavour and hints of cumin, clove, and and citrus. Growing instructions: Sow early in spring, indoors, at approx 70°F (21°C) and place in a shady location. Germination can take up to 3 weeks. Transplant seedlings when large enough to handle in individual pots and grow on before hardening off and planting out to 30cm (12'') apart after the risk of frost has passed. Alternatively. Sow direct, 1-2 seeds per inch, into a well-prepared seed bed in rows 45cm (18'') apart after the last frosts. Thin to 6-12" apart. Sow: March to April (under glass) or May to June (direct) Flowering: August to September