KKAENNIP SEEDS

Perilla frutescens var. frutescens

Also known as Korean shiso. As common to Korean cuisine as garlic and green onions. Very different in flavor and stature from Japanese shiso. This selection is the most vigorous and visually striking we know of. Dusky green leaves with burgundy veins and undersides. Plants are huge and bushy, especially given moist fertile soil. They are typically listed as growing to no more than 3', although our flowering plants are nearing 6' in October after an unusually wet year.

These plants reliably produce tons of large aromatic leaves, and for that reason we favor this selection for kim-chi and pickling. Sweet fragrance and flavor. Substantial enough to wrap seasoned rice or meat, and will hold up to cooking. Makes a magical tempura.

Beautiful deep pink flowers attract bees, butterflies and other beneficial insects in autumn. Dried seeds may be toasted and ground for deulkkae garu, which adds fantastic texture and flavor to salads, noodles, and roasted vegetables. Toasted seeds may also be pressed, producing a nutritious condiment and cooking oil.

Start seeds indoors several weeks before transplanting into warm garden soil in spring. Germination is erratic, and can sometimes be improved by popping the seed packet into the freezer for a few days. Tuck seeds just beneath the surface of moist soil and press to keep seeds snug. Kept warm and moist in bright light, seeds typically begin to germinate in about two weeks. Prick out seedlings to grow on in individual 2" cells or pots in bright light at room temperature. Plants grow very quickly, and should be watered regularly. Fertilizing is unnecessary. Harden off before transplanting into full sun after all danger of frost has passed. Mulch generously and water frequently until well-rooted. In hot dry regions, these plants will benefit from irrigation. In cool maritime climates, they need little attention.

Harvest leaves anytime. Plants recover quickly, producing new growth throughout the season. Typically very late to flower and produce seeds. Crowding and withholding water will encourage plants to bolt earlier, but the quality of the leaves will suffer.

Packet contains at least 100 seeds.