'Cultivate & Eat' Planting Kit

This kit from Aichi Prefecture contains everything you need to start growing your own Japanese herbs and culinary plants at home. Packed into carefully designed rice bags decorated with woodblock printed illustrations, the kits contain both the seeds and the potting mix, with the bag doubling as a pot. All that is required is to regularly pour water into the bag, following the instructions, and wait for the plant to mature, upon which it is ready to be added to your favourite dishes. Once matured, the plants can easily be transplanted into larger pots or directly into your garden to keep on growing.

These three herbs play an important role in Japanese cuisine and add depth and complexity to many kinds of cooking.

Shiso, also known as Japanese basil, has a distinct anise-like flavour and is commonly used in salads, soups and pickles as well as to garnish sushi.

Wasabina, or Japanese mustard greens, have a peppery taste and are often used in dishes such as hotpots and tempura.

Shungiku, or chrysanthemum greens, have a slightly bitter taste and are added to soups, stews and stir fries.