Perilla

Perilla, also known as Perilla frutescens, sesame leaf or Chinese black nettle, is a plant genus of the labiate family (Lamiaceae). India and China are assumed to be the regions of origin. Meanwhile Perilla frutescens is also found in East, Southeast and South Asia. Leaves and extracts of the seed are used for seasoning and healing purposes. Perilla frutescens is used as a spice or as a herbal drug in medicinal products.

Perilla frutescens grows as an annual and herbaceous plant and reaches growth heights between 30 cm and 60 cm, but depending on the climate Perilla can also grow considerably taller. The plants are green to dark purple in colour and have short and rough hairs.
Perilla frutescens has oval leaves and striking inflorescences at the ends and sides. The crown of the flower is white to purple red in colour.

Perilla frutescens is the parent plant of Oleum Perillae frutescentis semen, the relatively fatty oil from the perilla seed.