Red Shiso

Red Shiso

Scientific Name:
Perilla frutescens

Family:
Lamiaceae

Varieties:

• Default (ID: 49)
• Default (ID: 48)

Introduction

Perilla frutescens, commonly known as Korean perilla or beefsteak plant, is a species within the Lamiaceae family. It is an annual plant native to Southeast Asia and the Indian highlands, widely cultivated in Korea, southern China, Japan, and India for its edible leaves and seeds. The variety Perilla frutescens var. crispa, known as “shiso,” is particularly popular in Japan for its culinary and ornamental uses. Perilla is valued for its aromatic leaves, which have a strong mint-like fragrance and are used in various dishes for flavoring.

Characteristics

• Physical Characteristics: Perilla frutescens has opposite, ovate leaves with serrated margins, typically 3-6 inches long. The leaves can be green with purple tinges or deeply colored in varieties like Red Shiso, which has dark red-purple leaves with burgundy veins. The stems are square and hairy, with small bell-shaped flowers appearing in late summer.
• Growing Conditions: Perilla grows well in full sun to partial shade and can thrive in a variety of soils, from moist to dry. It is resistant to heat and drought.
• Lifecycle: Perilla frutescens is an annual plant, meaning it completes its life cycle within a year. It grows quickly, reaching heights of 1 to 3 feet, and can self-seed prolifically if not managed.

Why is this crop useful for space?

Perilla frutescens could be beneficial for space cultivation due to several factors: - Nutritional Value: The leaves are edible and nutritious, providing a source of vitamins and minerals, making them a valuable crop for sustaining astronauts on long missions. - Easy to Grow: Its ability to thrive in a variety of conditions and its fast growth rate make it suitable for controlled environments like those found in space habitats. - Air Purification: Like many plants, perilla can contribute to air purification by removing CO2 and releasing O2, which is crucial in closed environments. - Psychological Benefits: The aromatic and flavorful leaves could enhance the culinary experience in space, potentially boosting morale.

History of Cultivation in Space (if there is any)

Currently, there is no specific information available on the cultivation of Perilla frutescens in space. However, its characteristics make it a candidate for future space agriculture projects focused on sustainable food production and air quality improvement. As space agencies and private companies explore sustainable food systems for long-duration space missions, plants like perilla could become part of these initiatives due to their adaptability and nutritional value.