This ornamental herb is very attractive with deep purple stems that are square and purple to red tinted leaves. It is a bushy plant and can reach 36 inches in height. Grow in full sun and in rich, moist, and well-drained soil. The plant is highly aromatic with a minty scent, and it is very attractive to butterflies. In humid climates, the herb plants grow very quickly, and to maintain a neat appearance, pinch the tops off.
As a culinary herb, Perilla is a sweet-spicy flavoring that is widely used in oriental cuisine such as stir fries, raw fish, vegetable dishes, rice and soups. The red color of the leaves is used to color and pickle fruits and vegetables. The seeds are used to make nutritious cooking oil as well. Many vitamins and minerals are found in this herb plant.