Perilla frutescens

Perilla frutescens is a species of Perilla in the mint family Lamiaceae. It is an annual plant native to eastern Russia, South and Southeast Asia, and has been introduced to parts of eastern Asia, Europe, and North America. It prefers subtropical habitats. An edible plant, perilla is grown in gardens and attracts butterflies. It has a strong mint-like smell. The major volatile compound responsible for this characteristic aroma is perilla ketone concentrated in the leaves. In the United States, Perilla frutescens is a pest weed, toxic to cattle after ingestion.