Stevia rebaudiana

Use fresh, dried, powdered, or as a liquid to sweeten a variety of foods and beverages.
Bushy, high-yielding plants. Perennial in Zones 9-11. Avg. 75,000 seeds/oz. Packet: 25 seeds.

Plant Characteristics

Plant Cycle: 

Plant Habit: 

shrubs

Characteristics: 

Scientific classification

Genus: 

Binomial name: 

Stevia rebaudiana

Stevia rebaudiana

Habitat

Native Habitat: 

Stevia is an ideal plant to grow in containers as a houseplant or on the patio
Growing Information

Light Preference: 

Soil Requirements: 

average, well-drained but moist soil

How to Grow: 

Transplant (recommended): Seed should be used within 6 months of purchase. Store seed in a cool, dry location for best germination. Sow seeds shallowly 6-8 weeks before the last frost. Do not over-water. Transplant to cell flats when seedlings are large enough to handle. For bushier plants, pinch back growing tips every few weeks for the first 1-2 months. After the last frost, transplant outside 12" apart. Stevia will not tolerate temperatures below 45°F (7°C). Stevia is an ideal plant to grow in containers as a houseplant or on the patio. For container growing, choose a pot that is at least 14" across and provide soil that is well drained. Keep evenly moist.

Harvest: 

Pick in the morning and before flowering occurs for the highest sugar content. Leaves may be harvested throughout the season once the plant has become established. To dry, hang small bunches of stems in a well-ventilated, dry location out of direct sunlight. Dried leaves may be ground into powder for storage.
Uses

Plant Uses: 

Use fresh, dried, powdered, or as a liquid to sweeten a variety of foods and beverages

Link: 

Plant-a-holic
References