Lamiaceae; native to India.

Germination: Best sown indoors 4-6 weeks before last frost at a temperature 65-75°. Expect germination in 15-20 days. Sow outdoors after all danger of frost has passed. Do not cover the seeds as light is necessary for germination.

Growth: Transplant with care to its permanent place in the garden as Perilla resents being moved. Site 12-15 inches apart in full sun or light shade. Plant in an average to dry soil with good drainage. Pinch when 6 inches tall to induce bushiness. It self sows readily. To grow indoors, provide 55° nights, full sun, and keep the soil evenly moist.

Appearance and Use: This annual is used in borders, beds, and planters, and is grown as a houseplant. The crisp, deeply toothed, reddish purple foliage has a metallic, bronzy sheen. The plants reach 18-36 inches, have square stems, and bear pale lavender- pink or white flowers in 3-6 inch racemes in late summer. Perilla is primarily grown for its foliage.