Purple Shiso (Perilla frutescens) Ornamental Herb Seeds – Green & Purple Leaves

Purple Shiso (Perilla frutescens) is an eye-catching ornamental and culinary plant known for its vibrant purple and green leaves, distinctive aroma, and fast-growing nature. This non-GMO seed variety performs extremely well in warm conditions and adapts to both garden beds and containers, making it a popular choice for home gardeners seeking bold foliage color and strong seasonal growth. Purple Shiso is valued for its decorative appearance, fragrant leaves, and ease of cultivation across a wide range of US climates.

Features

• Stunning bicolor foliage with purple and green leaves
• Aromatic plant with vigorous, fast-growing habit
• Excellent ornamental variety for borders or containers
• Non-GMO heirloom seed variety
• Heat-loving and thrives in full sun
• High-yield leaf production through the growing season
• Suitable for both culinary and decorative use
• Grows well in garden beds, containers, and patio planters

Specifications

• Common Name: Purple Shiso, Perilla
• Scientific Name: Perilla frutescens
• Plant Type: Annual
• USDA Zones: 3–11 (grown as annual)
• Season: Spring through summer growing season
• Height: 18–36 inches
• Leaf Color: Deep purple with green highlights
• Bloom Color: Pale purple or white if allowed to flower
• Heirloom: Yes
• GMO Status: Non-GMO
• Organic: Not certified organic
• Light Requirements: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil Preference: Well-drained, moderately rich soil
• Water Needs: Moderate
• Growth Rate: Fast
• Days to Maturity: 60–70 days
• Plant Spacing: 12–18 inches
• Heat Tolerance: High
• Cold Tolerance: Low; protect from frost
• Seed Longevity: 2–3 years when stored properly
  
  

Planting Guide 

• Sowing Method: Start indoors or direct sow outdoors.
• Seed Preparation: Lightly press seeds on the soil surface; they need light to germinate.
• When to Plant:
• Indoors: 6–8 weeks before the last frost.
• Outdoors: After all frost danger has passed.
• Sowing Depth: Surface sow; do not bury seeds.
• Germination Time: 7–14 days depending on temperature.
• Transplanting: Move outdoors when soil is warm and nighttime temperatures stay above 55–60°F.
• Light Requirements: Full sun for the deepest purple leaf color; partial shade tolerated.
• Soil Requirements: Use well-drained, moderately rich soil.
• Watering: Keep the soil evenly moist but avoid overwatering.
• Maintenance:
• Pinch young tips to encourage bushy growth.
• Harvest leaves regularly to promote new growth.
• Avoid early flowering to maintain leaf quality.