How to grow Perilla / Shiso in the UK
Perilla frutescens
Perilla / Shiso (Perilla frutescens) is a herb that grows well in UK gardens. Japanese herb — citrus-mint-cumin flavour. Purple shiso looks dramatic, green is milder. This guide covers when and how to sow Perilla / Shiso, the soil and position it likes, watering and feeding, companion planting, and when to harvest.
When to sow & grow Perilla / Shiso
Sowing and harvest window through the year (UK):
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr Sow | May | Jun Plant | Jul Harvest | Aug Harvest | Sep Harvest | Oct Harvest | Nov | Dec |
Soil, position & care
- Soil
- Light, free-draining soil; many herbs resent winter wet
- Soil pH
- 6.0–7.5
- Position
- Warm sun or part shade
- Sowing depth
- Surface (needs light)
- Spacing
- 30 cm apart
- Sowing
- Sow indoors Apr; tender annual
- Growing
- Water in dry spells; avoid overfeeding which dilutes aromatic oils
- Harvest & upkeep
- Pinch tips; pick leaves young
- Watch for
- Slugs
Companion planting for Perilla / Shiso
No specific companion notes for this plant.
Add Perilla / Shiso to your free 12-month plan and get watering & sowing reminders — no sign-up needed.
Perilla / Shiso FAQs
When should I sow Perilla / Shiso in the UK?
In the UK, sow Perilla / Shiso in April. Sowing across these months gives the plant the right soil temperature and day length to establish well.
How much sun does Perilla / Shiso need?
Perilla / Shiso prefers full sun (6+ hrs direct).
When is Perilla / Shiso ready to harvest?
Perilla / Shiso is typically ready to harvest in July, August, September, October in the UK.
Is Perilla / Shiso easy to grow?
Easy — good for beginners. Japanese herb — citrus-mint-cumin flavour. Purple shiso looks dramatic, green is milder.