Red shiso is an Asian green, known as Japanese basil, which is easily recognized by its deeply colored magenta leaves. Shiso is from the same botanical family as mint that traditionally accompanies sushi and sashimi. Red shiso is also frequently included in salad mixes, soups, rice and tempura.

Rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and essential fatty acids, shiso has a variety of medicinal properties, including promoting digestive health, reducing inflammation, and supporting the immune system.

In the garden, it can grow 30” high and across. Popular with bees.

Be careful when composting the plant once it has gone to seed, as you will find red shiso wherever you use your compost in the garden. It likes sun or shade and comes up in August through October, adding a purple-red accent to garden beds.

Start the seeds in pots and transplant when the seedlings are 6” high.

In my experience, red shiso is deer, rabbit, mouse, vole, and woodchuck proof. Bird proof as well!

The organically grown red shiso seeds were harvested from River’s Edge Farm, in the Hudson Valley, New York.