Shiso
Perilla frutescens
Also known asPerilla · Beefsteak plant · Japanese basil · Kkaennip · Tia to
Environment
The bounded range this crop tolerates.
Climate and zones
- USDA zones
- 4–10 (winter low around -34°C)
- Frost
- tolerates light frost
- Season
- warm (summer, frost-sensitive)
Growing systems
Root mass: moderate.
Growing media
| Medium | pH effect | Retention | Bacterial surface |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rockwool (Mineral wool) | alkaline until pre-soaked | very high | low |
| Expanded clay pebbles (LECA) | neutral / inert | low | high |
| Coco coir (Coconut coir) | slightly acidic | high | moderate |
| Net pot, no medium (Bare-root) | - | - | - |
| Soil-based mix (Potting soil) | varies | high | high |
Nutrient demand by stage
NPK ratios are relative weights. EC targets shift through the plant's life.
| Stage | N | P | K | EC (mS/cm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| seedling | 1 | 1 | 1 | 0.8 |
| vegetative | 3 | 1 | 2 | 1.5 |
Aquaponics suitability
Compatible
Fish waste provides enough nitrogen for healthy growth. Supplemental potassium, calcium, and iron may still be needed depending on fish stocking density.
Care notes
An easy warm-season herb for hydroponic systems. EC 1.0-2.0 mS/cm. pH 5.5-7.0. Temperature: 20–30°C (warm-season; frost-sensitive). Moderate to high light (DLI 14-22 mol/m2/day). Any hydroponic system works. From seed to first harvest: 6-8 weeks. Harvest individual leaves as needed; the plant produces continuously throughout the warm season. Pinch the growing tip at 20–25 cm to promote branching. Remove flower buds to extend leaf production. Green shiso is the more culinarily versatile type; red shiso is primarily for pickling and coloring. For Japanese home cooks, fresh shiso transforms sashimi plates and cold noodle preparations. The herb is expensive at Japanese grocery stores and nearly unavailable elsewhere, making it a high-value personal-use crop. Self-seeds vigorously in outdoor gardens.