The leaves of this now well-known plant are used to meals and beverages. Considered an annual in most areas, but can be brought inside or over-wintered in zones 8-10. Provides lovely flowers and is a great herb to have in any garden. Once you try the unprocessed leaf, you’ll be hooked.
Stevia
Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni
2-3 ft. Hardy annual/Tender perennial - The dried leaves of this interesting shrub from Paraguay and Brazil are used to sweeten drinks. It is legal to grow and sell Stevia, which is 300 times sweeter than sugar, but not to call it a sugar substitute. The FDA has regulated it as a "dietary supplement."
Tricky to germinate, it must be surface sown in warm (80-85°F) soil. Can be grown as a perennial in zones 8-10. Tiny seeds are pressed into the soil. Tamp securely and keep evenly moist, warm and in light until germination - 52% germination.
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