How to grow shiso in a raised bed

Shiso (perilla) is the striking Japanese herb with frilly green or purple leaves and a unique flavour — part mint, part basil, part citrus. It's easy, ornamental and self-seeding in a warm raised bed.

Quick facts

• Position: full sun to part shade
• Spacing: 30 cm apart
• Tub depth: our 23 cm depth
• Time to harvest: 8–10 weeks

When should I plant shiso?

Shiso is frost-tender — plant in spring and summer. It self-seeds readily, so once you have it, it tends to return. Our free garden calendar shows the right months for your postcode.

• Subtropical (Brisbane & SEQ): September to February
• Temperate (Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Perth): October to December
• Cool & mountain (Tasmania, Canberra, highlands): November to December
• Tropical (Cairns, Darwin): April to July
• Arid inland: September to November

How do I grow shiso in a raised bed?

Plant into rich, moist mix. Pinch the tips to keep it bushy, and let a plant or two flower and seed if you'd like it to come back next year.

How often should I water and feed shiso?

Keep the mix evenly moist for tender leaves.

What pests attack shiso?

Keep an eye out for aphids and caterpillars — though most herbs are pleasingly pest-resistant. See our safe pest guide.

What are the common problems with shiso?

The main one to watch is downy mildew, usually from damp, crowded conditions. Good airflow and morning watering prevent most.

What grows well with shiso?

A good all-round companion; grows happily alongside basil and Asian greens. See our companion planting guide.

When do I harvest shiso?

Pick the leaves as you need them — younger leaves are more tender. Use fresh in sushi, salads and pickles.

More growing guides: Thai basil, basil and Vietnamese mint.

Plan your patch: our free garden calendar shows what to plant now where you live. Ready to grow? Browse our raised garden beds or build your own with the garden bed builder.

Image: Alex Abair, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons.