Perilla Red Shiso, microgrens seeds- Asian herb with a unique flavor
Perilla Red Shiso (Perilla frutescens var. crispa) is:
- a deep red-purple herb,
- from the mint family (Lamiaceae),
- widely used in Japanese, Korean, and Southeast Asian cuisines.
- It is known for its distinctive flavor, which combines notes of mint, basil, anise, and citrus.
This variety of Perilla is highly aromatic and valued for both its culinary and medicinal properties. In traditional Asian cultures, it has been used for centuries as a natural remedy and food ingredient. Its unique pigmentation comes from anthocyanins, which not only give the leaves their intense color but also contribute to their high antioxidant content.
Red Shiso microgreens are slow-growing compared to common microgreens. Their delicate, serrated leaves and vibrant red hue make them a sought-after ingredient in high-end gastronomy, where chefs use them for both their striking appearance and complex flavor
How to grow Perilla Red Shiso Microgreens?
Growing Perilla Red Shiso microgreens isn’t the easiest, but it’s definitely worth the effort! This variety is known for its slow and tricky germination, but once you master it, you’ve truly earned the title of a great microgreener.
►Seed Preparation – No Soaking Needed
There’s a common misconception that Perilla Red Shiso microgreens require seed soaking before sowing—but we disagree. Perilla Red Shiso microgreens have small, delicate seeds that do not need soaking. Instead of soaking, focus on proper storage and temperature control to achieve high germination rates.
►Choosing the Right Growing Medium for Perilla Red Shiso Microgreens
- Peat substrate – A safe and reliable option that ensures strong, consistent growth for Perilla Red Shiso microgreens.
- Coconut coir – Works well but requires careful moisture management for Perilla microgreens.
- Cocomats – A potential option for growing Red Shiso microgreens, though we do not have experience with this method.
- Hydroponics? – Not recommended, as they perform better in a soil-based or fiber-based medium.
►Germination – Darkness & Heat for Perilla Red Shiso Microgreens
Germination Method: Use the TP;BP method – place seeds between moist top paper and bottom paper layers to maintain even moisture and contact.
Dormancy Break: Prechill seeds for 5 days at 8–10°C to encourage uniform germination. This cold treatment mimics natural conditions that Perilla seeds require.
Temperature Cycle: Maintain a day/night rhythm with 16 hours at 30°C and 8 hours at 20°C. This warm fluctuation promotes optimal germination response.
First Count: Check initial germination after 5–7 days to monitor progress.
Post-Count Adjustment: After the first count, hold seeds at a constant 20°C for 24 hours to stabilize development.
Final Count: Evaluate total germination after 21 days for the most accurate results.
►Growth & Harvest of Perilla Red Shiso Microgreens
- Watering: Always water from the bottom to prevent mold and damping-off, ensuring strong and healthy Perilla Red Shiso microgreens.
- Harvest Time for Microgreens Stage: Ready in 19+ days, when the cotyledons and first true leaves fully develop.
- Harvest Time for Edible Leaves: If allowed to grow beyond the microgreen stage, Perilla Red Shiso microgreens will develop into full-sized, flavorful leaves with even more intense aroma and taste.
►Proper Seed Storage for Perilla Red Shiso Microgreens
The seeds of Perilla Red Shiso microgreens are very delicate, requiring careful handling and storage. To maintain the viability and high germination rate of Perilla Red Shiso microgreens, store the seeds in a dedicated seed fridge at 5-8°C.
►Important Note on Growing Perilla Red Shiso
Perilla seeds can be challenging to grow, and germination requirements may vary between seed lots. While standard methods may work for some growers, others have reported better results using alternative techniques. Here are some tips that have led to successful germination:
- Soaking: Soak the seeds in lukewarm water for 12–24 hours to stimulate the process.
- Scarification: Gently rub seeds with sandpaper or briefly dip them in hot water (around 60°C) to help soften the seed coat.
- Rinsing: Rinse seeds thoroughly before sowing to remove natural germination inhibitors.
- Light exposure:Do not cover seeds with soil, so they have access to light. Wrap your tray in clear stretch foil and place it under grow lights.
- Optimal conditions: Keep the growing environment at 22–25°C with high humidity for the best chance of success.
Mastering the growth of Perilla Red Shiso microgreens is challenging, but their bold flavor, stunning appearance, and high market value make them an exceptional choice for professional microgreen growers. With the right techniques, you can produce top-quality Perilla Red Shiso microgreens that will stand out in the culinary world.
Health benefits of Perilla Red Shiso:
Beyond its culinary appeal, Perilla is packed with antioxidants, omega-3s, and anti-inflammatory compounds, making it a valuable functional food. Whether used as microgreens or mature leaves, it enhances both flavor and nutrition, making it a favorite among chefs and health-conscious consumers alike.
1. Rich in Antioxidants
- Contains high levels of anthocyanins, which protect cells from oxidative stress.
- Rosmarinic acid helps reduce inflammation and supports immune function.
2. Supports Heart Health
- A plant-based source of omega-3 (ALA), which helps lower cholesterol.
- Contributes to better circulation and cardiovascular health.
3. Anti-Inflammatory and Allergy Relief
- Reduces histamine release, helping with asthma, allergies, and eczema.
- Contains luteolin and polyphenols, which reduce inflammation and immune overreactions.
4. Supports Digestion and Gut Health
- Aids digestion by reducing bloating and gut inflammation.
- Contains antibacterial properties that help balance gut microbiota.
5. Immune System Boosting
- High in vitamin C, beta-carotene, and flavonoids, which strengthen immunity.
- Helps the body fight infections and improve overall resilience to illness.
6. Potential Anti-Cancer Properties
- Contains polyphenols and essential oils that may help inhibit cancer cell growth.
- Antioxidants in Perilla support cell protection and longevity.
7. Mental Health and Stress Reduction
- Phytochemicals in Perilla may help reduce stress, anxiety, and cognitive decline.
- Traditionally used in herbal medicine for mood balance and mental clarity.
Perilla Red Shiso and its microgreens are nutrient-dense, functional foods that combine flavor, health benefits, and culinary versatility, making them a premium ingredient for chefs and health-conscious consumers.
How to use Perilla Red Shiso in the kitchen?
Perilla Red Shiso is a staple in Japanese, Korean, and Southeast Asian cuisines, valued for its complex flavor and aromatic qualities. The mature leaves and microgreens are used differently, depending on the dish and preparation style.
Mature Perilla Red Shiso Leaves
- Pickling and Fermentation – Traditionally used in Japan to color and flavor umeboshi (pickled plums) and other preserved foods.
- Wraps and Garnishes – Large leaves are often used to wrap sushi, sashimi, or grilled meats, adding a fragrant, slightly spicy note.
- Infusions – Steeped in hot water to make herbal tea or infused in vinegar for salad dressings.
- Seasoning and Powder – Dried and crushed into shiso furikake, a seasoning blend sprinkled over rice and noodles.
- Korean Cuisine – Used fresh or pickled in kimchi and side dishes like perilla leaf jeon (savory pancakes).
Perilla Red Shiso Microgreens
- Salads and Cold Dishes – Adds a citrusy, basil-like flavor and vibrant red contrast to mixed greens.
- Sushi and Seafood – A common garnish for sashimi, poke bowls, and ceviche, enhancing freshness.
- Cocktails and Beverages – Used as a decorative element or muddled into drinks like gin cocktails and lemonades for an herbal twist.
- Hot Dishes – Added to ramen, miso soup, or grilled dishes just before serving to retain its aroma.
- Desserts and Sweets – Paired with fruit-based desserts, sorbets, and panna cotta for a unique herbal-citrus note.
Perilla Red Shiso microgreens are particularly popular in high-end restaurants, where their deep red color and delicate texture enhance both the presentation and taste of gourmet dishes. Their versatility makes them a sought-after ingredient for chefs looking to elevate the sensory experience of their creations.
| Variety: | Perilla Red Shiso |
| Certification: | Conventional Seeds |
| Seed Category: | Microgreens Seeds |
| Latin Name: | Perilla frutescens |
| Difficulty Level: | Medium |
| Seed count per gram: | 3000 seeds |
| Sprout in low temp.: | No |
| Soaking: | No |
| Watering: | Rare |
| Blackout Time: | 8 days |
| Total growing time: | 27 days |
| Taste: | Mix of mint Anise, Basil and Oregano |
| Stem Color: | Pink |
| Leaves Color: | Green to Violet |
| Nutrition benefits: | A, C, B1, B2, PP, Omega 3 |
