Korean Shiso 
Perilla frutescens 
Most of the traditional perillas grown in this country today are varieties from Japan.  This one is different in taste and in the size of the leaves. The flavor is a blend of mint and basil, and the large leaves are two-toned: bright green on top and pale purple underneath.  They can be added to salads, used as garnishes, or folded into wraps for rice, sushi, and other cooked foods.  We have even pickled them with meat stuffings much like grape leaves, which they approximate in size. 
            The plants will grow 3 to 4 feet tall in sunny, well-drained locations and yield an abundance of leaves from mid-summer until frost.  They self-seed once established and can be transplanted easily to other parts of the garden.  Please note that this perilla will cross with any other varieties planted nearby.  We recommend isolation by at least 100 feet. Allow 70 days for leaf harvest to commence.