Stevia (Stevia rebaudiana) has been used for centuries by the indigenous Guarani people of Paraguay and Brazil who called it "ka’a he’ê" or "sweet herb." This tender perennial is well-known as a powerful sweetening agent with leaves that are about 300 times sweeter than sugar. Stevia also has traditional uses as a medicinal tea and herbal medicine, supporting digestion and fighting inflammation. This small, herbaceous plant is a wonderful addition to any home garden, offering unique flavor and a natural sweetener for your culinary explorations.

• Challenging But Rewarding - Only recommended for experienced growers. Stevia, or Stevia Rebaudiana, is grown for sweet leaves. A tender perennial in warmer climates (Zone 8-11), this herb must be protected from frost. For this reason, it is typically grown as an annual or even indoors with supplementary light and heat in Zones 7 and cooler. The compact plant reaches about 18-30 inches; ideal for containers or an in-ground food plot.
• Low Germination Rates - Stevia's natural germination rate is low, around 10 to 40%. Sow indoors 8-10 weeks before the last frost at 75° F. Barely cover seeds; light aids germination. Germinates in 7-14 days under optimal conditions. Each pack contains approximately 20-24 tiny seeds; handle with care. Once established, Stevia is easy to grow, low maintenance, heat-tolerant, and able to thrive in poor soil. Propagate more plants with cuttings.
• Healthy & Sweet - A low-carb, all-natural alternative to artificial sweeteners and sugar, sweetleaf can be used fresh, freeze-dried, dried, or made into an extract. A little goes a long way: 3-4 teaspoons of finely ground green powder can replace a cup of cane sugar, depending on personal preferences and sweetness. For optimal sweetness and minimal aftertaste, harvest leaves before the plant blooms and pinch off flower buds to prevent leaves from developing a bitter flavor.

Net wt. 6mg