Perilla Seeds – Perilla frutescens
Perilla frutescens • Lamiaceae (mint) • Native to SE Asia, Himalayas
Perilla Seeds grow into fast-growing annual plants with aromatic, colorful foliage in shades of green and purple. Ideal for herb gardens, containers, edible landscapes, and sunny garden beds.
Seed Variety: Green Perilla Seeds
Quantity: 100 Seeds
Selected: Green Perilla Seeds / 100 Seeds
Germination depends on soil, temperature, moisture, and care. See our return policy for details.
At a glance
Perilla self-seeds prolifically and can spread beyond its intended area, so deadhead flower spikes promptly if you want to keep it contained in your garden.
Botanical profile
Meet the Perilla – Perilla frutescens
Step-by-step planting
Growing perilla from seed is straightforward, though germination can vary depending on soil temperature, moisture levels, light conditions, and the care you give throughout the process.
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1
Cold Stratify Your Seeds
Place perilla seeds in a damp paper towel inside a sealed bag and refrigerate for 1 to 2 weeks before sowing, as this cold period significantly improves germination consistency.
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2
Choose the Right Timing
Start seeds indoors 4 to 6 weeks before your last expected frost date, or direct sow outdoors once nighttime temperatures are reliably above 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
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3
Sow at the Right Depth
Press perilla seeds gently onto the surface of moist seed-starting mix and cover them with just a thin dusting of soil, no more than 1/8 inch, as they need some light to germinate well.
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4
Maintain Soil Temperature
Keep the growing medium at 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit using a heat mat if needed, as cool soil is one of the most common reasons perilla germination stalls or fails.
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5
Keep Moisture Consistent
Mist the soil surface regularly to keep it evenly moist but never waterlogged, since perilla seeds are small and will dry out or rot quickly if conditions swing to either extreme.
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6
Transplant Carefully
Once seedlings have two sets of true leaves, transplant them into individual pots or garden beds with at least 12 inches of spacing, handling the roots gently as perilla dislikes heavy disturbance.
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7
Pinch for Bushier Growth
Pinch out the growing tips once plants reach 6 to 8 inches tall to encourage branching and a fuller plant, and continue pinching flower buds if your goal is leaf production rather than seed saving.
Year-round care
Spring
- Sow after last frost
- prepare soil with compost
Summer
- Water regularly
- feed monthly
Fall
- Harvest before frost
- store well
Winter
- Rest
- store seeds cool and dry
Full specifications
Shipping
- Orders are delivered within 8 to 16 business days.
- All orders include tracking.
- Free shipping on all orders.
- Seeds are packed in moisture-resistant, resealable foil packets.
Germination
Germination rates vary depending on climate, soil conditions, and care. Seeds perform best when planted in the right season at the correct temperature, with consistent moisture and adequate light. We take quality seriously and each batch is tested before packaging. If you have concerns about your seeds, reach out and we will do our best to help.
Frequently asked
Questions about Perilla Seeds – Perilla frutescens
How long do perilla seeds take to germinate?
Under good conditions, perilla seeds typically sprout somewhere between 7 and 21 days, though this range can shift depending on your soil temperature, moisture consistency, and whether the seeds received cold stratification beforehand. Seeds sown in cool or dry conditions may take longer or show uneven sprouting. If nothing has emerged after three weeks, try adjusting soil warmth before assuming the seeds have failed.
Does perilla need light to germinate?
Yes, perilla seeds are considered light-sensitive germinators, meaning they do better when not buried too deeply. A very thin covering of soil or vermiculite is enough to keep moisture around the seed without blocking the light cues that support sprouting. Placing trays near a bright window or under grow lights can make a noticeable difference in early germination.
Is perilla safe for cats and dogs?
Perilla frutescens is considered toxic to cats and dogs, and can cause respiratory distress, lethargy, and digestive upset if consumed in significant amounts. If you have pets that roam your garden, it is worth planting perilla in a spot they cannot easily access. When in doubt, consult your veterinarian about plants in your outdoor space.
Can I grow perilla in a container?
Perilla grows quite well in containers as long as the pot is at least 10 to 12 inches deep and has good drainage, since the plant develops a reasonable root system and does not like sitting in wet soil. Use a fertile, well-draining potting mix and place the container where it receives at least 4 to 6 hours of sun daily. Container-grown plants may need more frequent watering and occasional feeding with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.
When should I start perilla seeds indoors?
A good rule of thumb is to start perilla seeds indoors 4 to 6 weeks before your last average frost date for your region. Starting too early can result in leggy seedlings that struggle at transplant time, so stick close to that window. If you plan to cold stratify the seeds first, factor in that extra 1 to 2 weeks when counting backward from your transplant date.
What soil pH does perilla prefer?
Perilla frutescens grows well in soil with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5, which is mildly acidic to near neutral. If your soil is significantly more alkaline, the plant may show yellowing leaves due to limited nutrient uptake. A basic soil test from your local garden center can tell you where you stand and whether lime or sulfur amendments are needed.
How far apart should perilla plants be spaced?
Space perilla plants about 12 to 18 inches apart to give each one room to branch out and allow good airflow between plants, which helps reduce the humidity conditions that favor fungal problems. If you are growing in rows, 18 inches between rows works well for ease of harvesting. Tighter spacing is possible in containers or small beds, but expect smaller plants and more competition for moisture and nutrients.