Perilla frutescens 'Magilla Purple'

The 'Magilla Purple' Perilla, also known as Nankin Perilla or Chinese Basil, is an annual plant closely related to coleus but easier to grow as it is more tolerant to heat and cold. Its gorgeously coloured and fragrant foliage is its main asset. Each leaf has a fuchsia pink central vein, surrounded by a variegated green and purple lamina, with occasional cream-white touches. It will thrive in an exotic-looking flower bed or a large pot, in moist but well-drained soil, in any exposure.

Native to southern China (Himalayas) and Burma, perilla frutescens is a perennial plant mostly grown annually, belonging to the mint family, just like coleus, mint, and sage. This hardy plant, down to -5°C when young, is distinguished by its foliage, which exudes a remarkable aroma, ranging from cinnamon, basil, and lemon balm to green anise. All its parts are edible. 'Magilla Purple', from which it originates, forms a bushy clump almost as wide as it is tall, made up of densely leafy stems reaching a minimum height of 50 to 60 cm (20 to 24in). Its leaves, 10 cm (4in) long, are opposite on the stem. They are ovate, with an undulate margin. They are shiny and rough to the touch and have prominent and pubescent veins on the underside. They are brilliantly and vividly coloured, giving the whole plant an exotic appearance. The flowering, of no major interest, takes place in summer in the form of tiny white flowers gathered in 10 cm (4in) long spikes, which are best removed. 'Magilla Purple' Perilla does not produce viable seeds.

'Magilla Purple' or 'Nankin Perilla' is ideal for adding a touch of tropical and lushness to the garden. Planted alongside large banana trees, Colocasia, or pink cannas, the exotic effect will be guaranteed! In a more contemporary spirit, it forms a stunning combination with purple ornamental grasses with a fountain-like habit, such as Pennisetum setaceum 'Rubrum' or Pennisetum glaucum 'Purple Majesty'.

In Asian cuisine, Perilla frutescens is used as a green vegetable, and its leaves can be used raw in salads. It is also a widely used medicinal plant in Asian pharmacopoeia.

Note: Please be aware that our plug plants are professional products intended for experienced gardeners: upon receipt, transplant and store them in a sheltered place (conservatory, greenhouse, cold frame...) at a temperature above 14C° for a few weeks before being planted outside once the risk of frost has definitively passed.