Also known as Beef-Steak Plant · Beefsteak · Beefsteak-Mint
Beefsteak plant (Perilla frutescens) is an aromatic herb grown for its edible leaves, often used in Asian cuisine. It thrives in full sun to partial shade.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun to Partial Shade
75% intensity
Prefers at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily, but can tolerate some shade, especially in hot climates.
Consistent Moisture
50% intensity
Keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Allow top inch to dry between waterings.
Well-drained, fertile loam
50% intensity
Warm
75% intensity
Thrives in temperatures between 18-24°C. Protect from frost.
Outdoor
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | Yes |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Perilla frutescens prefers consistently moist soil. Water regularly, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. Avoid waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.
In hot, dry weather, you may need to water more frequently to maintain adequate moisture levels.
Pinch back young plants to encourage bushier growth. Regularly deadhead spent flowers to prevent self-seeding and prolong the harvest of leaves.
Pruning also helps maintain a more compact and attractive plant form throughout the growing season.
Perilla frutescens is easily propagated from seeds sown directly outdoors after the last frost or started indoors 4-6 weeks prior. It also readily self-seeds.
Cuttings can be taken in spring or summer and rooted in water or moist potting mix.
Young plants may need repotting annually into a slightly larger container in spring. Mature plants can remain in their pots for several years. Ensure new pots have adequate drainage holes to prevent root rot.
Repot when roots become crowded.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Beefsteak Plant (Perilla frutescens)
Where Beefsteak Plant (Perilla frutescens) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Perilla |
| Species | Perilla frutescens |
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
