Shiso- Green (Perilla) - 100 Seeds

Botanical Name: frutescens var. crispa

Green shiso (Perilla frutescens), also known as Japanese basil or perilla, is a nutritious herb used in Asian cuisine. The fragrant leaves are eaten raw. This is a cool season vegetable.

Light Requirements: Full sun to partial shade. It requires at least 4-6 hours of sun.

Optimal Temperature:  68°F to 75°F (20°C to 24°C). Shiso thrives in warm weather but is sensitive to frost. Plant shiso after the last frost in spring, and avoid temperatures dropping below 50°F (10°C).

Soil:

• Well-draining soil: Shiso prefers rich, well-drained soil with good moisture retention. A loamy soil with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5 is ideal, but it can tolerate a wide range of soil types.
• Nutrients: Adding organic matter, like compost, to the soil before planting enhances growth.

Watering:

• Consistent moisture: Shiso requires regular watering to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Avoid letting the soil dry out completely, especially in hot weather.

Spacing:

• Plant spacing: Shiso plants should be spaced about 12 to 18 inches (30 to 45 cm) apart to allow for airflow and healthy growth, as they can become bushy.

Climate:

• Warm, humid climates: Shiso grows best in warm, humid climates typical of summer conditions, but it can be grown as an annual in temperate regions.

Shiso is relatively easy to grow and can also be cultivated in containers, making it adaptable for various garden settings.

Nutritional content of green shiso per 100 grams (about 3.5 ounces) of raw leaves:

Macronutrients:

• Calories: 37 kcal
• Protein: 2.9 g
• Carbohydrates: 7.4 g
  • Sugars: 0 g (minimal)
  • Fiber: 7.3 g
• Fat: 0.2 g

Vitamins:

• Vitamin A: 50% of the Daily Value (DV) (mostly as carotenoids)
• Vitamin C: 43% of the DV
• Vitamin K: 500% of the DV
• Folate (Vitamin B9): 3% of the DV

Minerals:

• Calcium: 23% of the DV
• Iron: 21% of the DV
• Magnesium: 13% of the DV
• Potassium: 10% of the DV
• Manganese: 90% of the DV

Other Nutrients:

• Antioxidants: Shiso is rich in phenolic compounds and flavonoids, such as rosmarinic acid, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Shiso seeds and leaves contain small amounts of omega-3 fatty acids, though the seed oil is a more concentrated source.

Green shiso is a low-calorie herb with a good balance of fiber, vitamins, and minerals, particularly high in Vitamin K and antioxidants. It’s also known for its anti-allergic and anti-inflammatory properties.