How to Grow Perilla Plant Indoors

Perilla plant, scientifically known as Perilla frutescens, is a popular herb originating from East Asia. It is commonly used in Korean, Chinese, and Japanese cuisines due to its unique flavor and aromatic qualities. Perilla leaves have a distinct taste that can be described as a combination of mint and basil, with a hint of anise.

If you love experimenting with different flavors in your cooking or simply want to add a touch of Asian cuisine to your meals, growing perilla plant indoors can be a rewarding experience. Not only does it provide you with fresh herbs at your fingertips, but it also adds a vibrant touch of green to your indoor space. Here’s how you can successfully grow perilla plant indoors.

Choosing the Right Variety

There are several varieties of perilla plants available, each with its own unique characteristics. Some popular varieties include Green Perilla (Ao Shiso), Red Perilla (Akajiso), and Korean Perilla (Deulkkae). When selecting a variety for indoor cultivation, consider factors such as growth habit, leaf color, and flavor profile.

Green Perilla is the most common variety and has green leaves with a mild taste. Red Perilla has purplish-red leaves and imparts a stronger flavor to dishes. Korean Perilla has distinctively large green leaves and a nuttier flavor compared to other varieties. Choose a variety that suits your taste preferences and complements your culinary endeavors.

Sourcing Seeds or Seedlings

Once you’ve decided on the variety of perilla plant you want to grow indoors, you’ll need to source seeds or seedlings. While it may be challenging to find perilla seeds at your local garden center, they are readily available online through various seed suppliers or Asian specialty stores.

Alternatively, you can also try propagating perilla plants from cuttings if you have access to an established plant. Simply take a 4-6 inch cutting from the stem, remove the lower leaves, and place it in a glass of water. Once roots develop, transfer the cutting to a pot with well-draining soil.

Preparing the Growing Environment

Perilla plants thrive in warm and sunny conditions. Choose a location in your home that receives bright, indirect sunlight for at least 6-8 hours a day. A south-facing window is usually ideal for indoor cultivation. If natural light is limited, you can supplement it with artificial grow lights to ensure adequate light intensity and duration.

Perilla plants prefer well-draining soil with a slightly acidic pH level. A mixture of potting soil and perlite or sand can provide the ideal growing medium. Ensure that the pot or container has drainage holes to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.

Planting and Care

When planting perilla seeds, sow them directly into the prepared potting mix at a depth of about ¼ inch. Water the soil gently after sowing to ensure good seed-to-soil contact. Keep the soil consistently moist but not overly saturated.

If you’re using seedlings, transplant them into the prepared potting mix, ensuring that the root system is covered adequately with soil. Water thoroughly after transplanting to help the plant settle in its new environment.

To encourage healthy growth, apply a balanced liquid fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season. Prune regularly to promote bushier growth and prevent leggy stems. Pinching off the growing tips will also encourage branching and more abundant foliage.

Harvesting Perilla Leaves

Perilla leaves can be harvested once the plant reaches a suitable size, usually around 6-8 inches tall. Harvesting encourages branching and ensures a continuous supply of fresh leaves for culinary use.

When harvesting perilla leaves, opt for young and tender ones as they have a milder flavor. Use a pair of clean scissors or gardening shears to cut the leaves near the base of the stem. Regular harvesting will promote new growth and keep the plant productive.

Common Challenges and Solutions

Like any indoor plant, perilla is susceptible to certain challenges. Here are a few common issues you may encounter and how to address them:

Pests: Aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites can occasionally infest perilla plants. Regularly inspect your plants for signs of pests and use organic pest control methods like neem oil or insecticidal soap to eliminate them.
Diseases: Overwatering or inadequate airflow can lead to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew. Ensure proper drainage and provide good air circulation to prevent such issues.
Leggy Growth: Insufficient light can cause leggy growth in perilla plants. If you notice elongated stems and sparse foliage, move the plant to a brighter location or consider using artificial grow lights.

By following these guidelines, you can successfully grow perilla plant indoors and enjoy its fresh and aromatic leaves throughout the year. Whether you’re adding it to salads, soups, stir-fries, or sushi rolls, perilla will undoubtedly elevate your culinary creations with its unique flavor profile.