Common Name: Stevia Sugar Herb
Latin Name: Stevia rebaudiana
Description: An exciting natural sweetener reputed to be 300 times sweeter than sugar. Long, green leaves taste sugary when chewed. It is perennial in warmer climates but might not last through a cold winter without protection such as a mini hot house or plastic surround. Height 30cm.
Harvesting: Harvest leaves at any time. Use fresh or the leaves can be dried by hanging them in bunches in a dry, dark area.
Best Results: Protect the plant from frosts and keep it in a warm position in winter. Grow in full sun in light, well drained soil.Water regularly. Suitable for pots. Prune about half off every year to keep it compact.
Uses: Use fresh leaves to make sugar-free cordial and jam or to sweeten tea. Takes a little bit of experimenting and the sweetness of the leaves can change throughout the seasons.
Companion: Stevia repels some insects.