Quick Info
Feb.-May
Full sun
1/8-1/4 in.
1 in. apart
14-21 days
Heirloom Herbs - Stevia
Heirloom Herbs - Stevia
A prized addition to the herb garden, this heirloom variety is the authentic, native South American "sugar leaf." These perennial plants produce lush green foliage containing a natural sweetness up to 30 times more potent than cane sugar, yet with zero calories and no glycemic impact. Float the fresh leaves in hot or iced teas, or dry and grind them into a fine powder for use in baking or sprinkling over fresh fruit.
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Quick Info
Feb.-May
Full sun
1/8-1/4 in.
1 in. apart
14-21 days
A prized addition to the herb garden, this heirloom variety is the authentic, native South American "sugar leaf." These perennial plants produce lush green foliage containing a natural sweetness up to 30 times more potent than cane sugar, yet with zero calories and no glycemic impact. Float the fresh leaves in hot or iced teas, or dry and grind them into a fine powder for use in baking or sprinkling over fresh fruit.
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- SKU:5729
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Quick Info
Feb.-May
Full sun
1/8-1/4 in.
1 in. apart
14-21 days
GROWING INSTRUCTIONS
Tender Perennial
Hardy to USDA Zone 9.
Best to Start Indoors
Start seeds indoors 8 to 10 weeks before last spring frost. Sow 1 inch apart and 1/8 to 1/4 inch deep in fine seed starting mix. Maintain at 70°F (24°C), keep moist but not soggy. Be patient: Small seeds germinate slowly over 14 to 21 days. Provide a strong light source once sprouted.
When plants have several leaf sets, transplant into 4-inch pots. Move outdoors into full sun and well-drained soil after danger of frost has passed, spacing 10 to 12 inches apart in the garden. For containers, plant each start into at least a 3-gallon pot.
Growing Notes
Stevia has a naturally low germination rate but is easy to grow once established, thriving in sun, part shade and well-drained soil.
In mild winter climates, Stevia is an evergreen perennial that benefits from some pruning. In colder areas, grow as annual or in large containers. To overwinter indoors, prune heavily before first frost, place in a cool, well-lit room, and water sparingly until spring.
Harvest and Use
Harvest leaves in the morning for peak sweetness and pinch branch tips frequently to encourage bushy growth. Use whole fresh leaves to sweeten teas or lemonades. Air-dry stems in the shade until crisp and grind into a fine powder. Makes a wonderful, calorie-free sugar substitute for baking.