common perilla

Perilla frutescens var. frutescens

Flower name
common perilla
Scientific name
Perilla frutescens var. frutescens
Aliasジュウネン, 十稔, 荏胡麻
Place of originChinese, Burmese, Himalayan
Place of floweringGarden, Field
Flowering seasonJuly, August

What is common perilla

common perilla or Ego-ma, also known as common perilla in English, Perilla frutescens var. frutescens, is an annual herb belonging to the mint family (Lamiaceae) and the genus Perilla. Originating in Southeast Asia, it is a variant of Perilla frutescens var. crispa, commonly referred to as shiso. In Japan, it is also called Ju-nen (十稔), meaning "ten years" in reference to the belief that it can extend one’s lifespan by ten years. Historically, it was known as "E" (荏).

Ego-ma resembles shiso leaves but is larger and has a stronger aroma and flavor. It is highly nutritious, containing alpha-linolenic acid (an essential fatty acid that cannot be synthesized by the human body). Alpha-linolenic acid, though heat-sensitive, is converted in the body into DHA and EPA, which support cell membrane formation and offer a range of benefits, including improved mental health, allergy relief, memory enhancement, and prevention of dementia and lifestyle-related diseases.

Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, ego-ma promotes blood vessel flexibility, improves circulation, and reduces the risk of atherosclerosis, blood clots, high blood pressure, and cholesterol. It also contains rosmarinic acid, which is known to help alleviate hay fever symptoms.

General Information:
Common name: Ego-ma
Scientific name: Perilla frutescens var. frutescens
Other names: Ju-nen (十稔), historical name: E (荏)
Origin: Southeast Asia
Distribution: Japan (Honshu to Kyushu)
Habitat: Cultivated, riverbanks (wild)
Life cycle: Annual herb
Classification: Plantae, Angiosperms, Eudicots, Lamiales, Lamiaceae, Perilla genus
Height: 1.5 meters; Stem: upright, multi-branched with four ridges, covered in fine hairs, fragrant throughout
Leaves: Thick, elastic, aromatic; Arrangement: opposite; Shape: oval to egg-shaped; Color: dark green
Blooming season: July–September; Flowers: white, small (0.5 cm); Raceme inflorescence
Harvesting season (seeds): September–October; Fruits: spherical, brown
Pests: larvae of Ostrinia zaguliaevi
Edible parts: young leaves and seeds (oil)
Culinary season: July–August
Uses: Edible, oil (e.g., Perilla oil), raw material for paints
Health benefits: antibacterial effects, among others