The leaves and flowers have an intensely sweet flavor, making it an excellent sweetener for foods, beverages and medicines. Stevia is also a good medical herb that supports digestion. Annual, height, 12 – 15 inches. Flowers are delicate and white and bloom on and off through the growing season.

A native of Paraguay and Brazil, stevia prefers an environment that is hot and humid. Prefers moderate to heavy amounts of water. A clumping plant, should be spaced 10 – 12 inches apart. Likes full sun, partial shade, shade; grows best in rich humusy soil. May be brought in the house in fall, before last frost. Aerial parts may be harvested with scissors or snips at any point during the growing season. Stevia is considered an herbal sweetener and it supports healthy digestive tract function.