Beefsteak-mint
Perilla frutescens
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
12"–36" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
ND
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Perilla frutescens is an annual herb with aromatic foliage that grows 1-3 feet tall in part sun conditions. This Asian mint relative produces small flower spikes in summer and fall that attract pollinators. The plant has a bushy, upright growth habit and requires moderate watering throughout the growing season.
In an HOA neighborhood
Beefsteak-mint takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: moderate. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Non-native species may not meet native plant requirements
- Can self-seed aggressively and become weedy
- May not be recognized as intentional landscaping by HOA boards
Wildlife value
The summer and fall blooms provide nectar for bees and butterflies during the later part of the growing season. As an annual, it offers seasonal pollinator support rather than year-round wildlife habitat.
Common questions
- How much sun does Beefsteak-mint need?
- Beefsteak-mint grows best in part sun conditions.
- When does Beefsteak-mint bloom?
- Beefsteak-mint blooms in July, August, and September.
- Where is Beefsteak-mint native?
- Beefsteak-mint (Perilla frutescens) is native to ND, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Beefsteak-mint attract?
- Beefsteak-mint draws bees and butterflies.
- Is Beefsteak-mint HOA-friendly?
- Beefsteak-mint takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Beefsteak-mint? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz