Korean Perilla Seeds (Kkaennip / Shiso) – Large Two-Toned Leaves, Mint-Basil-Anise Flavor, Sushi Wrap & Microgreens

Korean Perilla – Kkaennip / Shiso (Perilla frutescens)

Korean Perilla is one of the most distinctive and aromatic herbs in Asian cuisine — a large-leaf variety with striking two-toned foliage: bright green on top, light purple underneath. The flavor is uniquely its own: somewhere between mint and basil, with an anise-like undertone that is instantly recognizable and deeply satisfying. A cornerstone of Korean cuisine, used fresh as a wrap for grilled meats and sushi (kkaennip-namul), and equally beloved in Japanese cooking as shiso or oba.

Plants grow vigorously and show their best leaf color in warm temperatures. Excellent as microgreens for salads and garnish. Often self-seeds year after year, naturalizing beautifully in the garden.

Herb Details

• Common Names: Korean Perilla, Kkaennip, Shiso, Oba, Beefsteak Plant
• Latin Name: Perilla frutescens
• Leaf: Large, two-toned — bright green above, light purple below
• Flavor: Mint + basil + anise — aromatic and distinctive
• Days to Harvest: 80–85 days
• Germination: 7–21 days (needs light to germinate)
• Best Use: Sushi/meat wrap, salads, garnish, pickling, microgreens, stir-fries, tempura

Asian Names

• Korea: Kkaennip, Kkaennip namul, Tulkkae
• Japan: Shiso, Oba, Ao Jiso
• China: Zi Su, Gee So
• Vietnam: Rau Tia To, Tia To

Growing Instructions

• Direct sow after last frost in well-drained soil in a sunny location (minimum 5 hours direct sun).
• Sow 1–2 seeds per inch; thin to 6–12" apart. Do not cover seeds — they need light to germinate. Tamp gently onto the soil surface.
• Keep moist until germination (7–21 days). Warm soil improves germination speed and leaf color.
• Pinch stem tips frequently to encourage bushy, productive plants.
• Plants often re-seed themselves in subsequent seasons.

Harvesting & Preserving

• Harvest leaves throughout the season; smaller leaves are the most tender.
• For seed saving: shake seed heads into a paper bag in late summer/fall. Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.
• To dry: bundle and hang in a well-ventilated spot, or dry on racks. Store in airtight containers.

Select your desired seed quantity above. Open-pollinated; re-seeds readily.