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Perilla Seeds

Note: Germination instructions are not on seed packets, follow the instructions below for starting seed.

Seeds require light to germinate and should be covered only with a very thin layer of soil when sowing, but keep soil moist during the germination. For obtining better and more uniform germination, it is suggested to soak seeds overnight before sowing.

Perilla Info

Perilla is edible and medicinal. The leaves have a very pleasant sweet taste and are used as a spice, cooked as potherbs or fried, and combined with fish, rice, vegetables and soups. It is also chopped and combined with gingerroot, then added to stir-fries, tempuras and salads in many Asian countries.
The plant also supplies a nutritious cooking oil from the seed, as well as giving color and flavor to many pickled dishes. In the United States the essential oil of the plant is used as a food flavoring in candies and sauces. It is used as a flavoring in dental products and at one time, it was one of the main ingredients in sarsaparilla.
The entire plant is very nutritious, packed with vitamins and minerals, and one of the aldehyde isomers found in Perilla is 2,000 times as sweet as sugar. There are many scientifically proven medicinal uses for Perilla.
It has been used for centuries in Oriental medicine as an antiasthmatic, antibacterial, antidote, antimicrobial, antipyretic, antiseptic, antispasmodic, antitussive, aromatic, carminative, diaphoretic, emollient, expectorant, pectoral, restorative, stomachic and tonic.
The stems are a traditional Chinese remedy for morning sickness and restless fetus in pregnancy, though some say the herb should be avoided by pregnant women. Perilla seed oil has been used in paints, varnishes, linoleum, printing ink, lacquers, and for protective waterproof coatings on cloth. Volatile oils of the plant are also used in aroma therapy and for perfume. The seed heads can be collected and dried for use in arrangements, potpourris and wreaths. The crushed plant also makes an effective insecticide.
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NP365 Green Perilla
Green Dark green ornamental for edging or flavoring oriental food, 24" tall.
Package of 1,000 seeds. $9.95



NP366 Red Perilla
Red Dark maroon ornamental for edging or flavoring oriental food, 24" tall.
Package of 1,000 seeds. $9.95





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