Perilla Leaf Tea vs Shiso Tea: Purple Tia To, Flavor and Brewing

Quick answer: perilla leaf tea, shiso, and Vietnamese tía tô can all refer to forms of Perilla frutescens, but the names do not prove that two products are the same cultivar, color, or preparation. Kew accepts Perilla frutescens and also recognizes P. frutescens var. crispa, whose common names include shiso. Kew: Perilla frutescens; Kew: var. crispa / shiso.

Is perilla tea the same as green tea?

No. Pure perilla leaf is not Camellia sinensis. Kew identifies Camellia sinensis as the tea plant and notes that tea contains caffeine. Therefore a pure perilla-only product does not gain tea-leaf caffeine merely because the word “tea” appears in the product name; a blend containing black or green tea can. Kew: Camellia sinensis.

Why color does not settle the identity

Kew’s botanical description notes green or purple forms of P. frutescens. Leaf color can therefore vary and should not be treated as a standalone authenticity test. Check the scientific name, plant part, and full ingredient list.

Brewing and buying

Use the directions on the exact dried-leaf product you buy and adjust strength by taste. Do not transfer a recipe from a green-tea blend to a pure perilla product. The Rike carries dried perilla leaf tea; the live product page is the source for current pack, ingredient wording, and availability.

Sources & Evidence Scope

• Kew POWO: Perilla frutescens — supports accepted identity and green/purple botanical forms.
• Kew POWO: P. frutescens var. crispa — supports shiso common-name context.
• Kew POWO: Camellia sinensis — supports the botanical tea/caffeine distinction; it does not measure caffeine in a specific commercial blend.

Reviewed October 11, 2026. Botanical identity does not establish therapeutic effects or authenticate a retail batch.