Purple Curly Perilla Mint , Shiso (Perilla frutescens, var.crispa)

This decorative medicinal and culinary plant is grown mainly in China and Japan. Especially in Japanese dishes such as sushi and umeboshi Purple Perilla is an indispensable condiment. The taste is difficult to define, a blend of mint and licorice. Purple Perilla is very suitable for coloring foods.

As a medicinal plant it is very effective against nausea, stomach or intestinal problems and flu, colds and extremely effective as an antihistamine in allergy and as an asthma drug. The oil obtained from its seeds is very rich in Omega 3 fatty acids.

The plant is easy to grow and likes sunny places and semi-shade too.