Herb Specifications
- Season: Perennial
- USDA Zones: 9 - 10
- Height: 12 inches
- Bloom Season: Can bloom year round
- Bloom Color: White
- Environment: Partial shade
- Soil Type: Moist, well-drained, pH 6.1 to 6.5
Planting Directions
- Temperature: 68 - 75F
- Average Germ Time: 7 - 14 days
- Light Required: Yes
- Depth: Press seed onto surface of soil, cover lightly with peat moss
- Sowing Rate: 2 - 3 seeds per plant
- Moisture: Keep moist until germination
- Plant Spacing: 12 inches
Stevia Sweetleaf (Stevia Rebaudiana) - Stevia is a sub-tropical frost sensitive perennial herb with leaves 20 - 30 times sweeter than the familiar cane sugar but with low calorie levels. Leaves can be directly applied in hot drinks or made into tea. 3 table spoons fresh leaves or 1 teaspoon powder equals 1 cup of sugar.
The stevia herb can sweeten any drink with no calories, no carbohydrates, no tooth decay and is diabetic safe. Stevia nourishes the pancreas and does not raise blood glucose levels, making it not only safe for diabetics but also beneficial. Since there are no calories or carbohydrates, Stevia herbs are an excellent weight loss aid. It does not contains the negative side effects reported with the use of artificial sweeteners including aspartame.
Stevia grows on most soils from herb seed, but prefers a sandy loam or loam, high in organic matter. Its native soils are on the acid side, but Stevia tolerates a wide range of soil pH.
Stevia requires a consistently moist soil, but not watterlogged. Too much soil moisture can cause plant rot. Ideal conditions are most easily provided with raised beds (4-6 inches high and 3 feet wide, with two rows of plants). Moisture is best supplied by a soaker hose such as the "weeping" hoses made from recycled rubber. Mulch is optional, but advisable, especially if a soaker hose is not used. Place the mulch after the weather is consistently warm. Stevia herbs prefers partial shade in climates with considerable summer sunshine. Day length is more critical than light intensity. Long spring and summer days favor leaf growth. Short days trigger blossoming.
To harvest Stevia, pick the leaves before flowering occurs and early in the morning for the sugar content to be at its highest. Once the plant is established, leaves may be harvested throughout the season with the main harvest occurring in September or October. Fresh or dried leaves are delicious in salads, sauces, and beverages. Dry several bunches of stems in a well-ventilated, dry area out of direct sun. Store in airtight containers.
It is recommended to sow Stevia seeds 6-8 weeks before last frost date indoors. Use sterile starter mix and gently press Stevia seeds into the soil. Lightly cover with peat moss. Keep herb seeds consistently moist, but do not over-water. For bushier plants, pinch back growing tips every few weeks for the first 1-2 months after germination. Transplant seedlings outdoors after danger of frost has passed.
Stevia plants may be held over indoors in winter. Some gardeners recommend the use of a fluorescent shop light left on 14-16 hours per day (use a timer). Others have reported that a sunny, south facing window in the winter is adequate light. Cuttings from these wintered over plants will provide fresh plants for the spring.
