Stevia (Stevia rebaudiana)
Care, watering, light and tips for Stevia on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Asteraceae
- Difficulty: Moderate care
- Watering: every 3 days
- Light: Full sun
- Temperature: 0–35 °C
About Stevia
Stevia rebaudiana, commonly known as Stevia or Candyleaf, is a small perennial shrub from the Asteraceae family, native to South America. Its leaves are the source of natural, non-caloric sweeteners, and the plant itself features oval green foliage and small white flowers. It is ideal for home gardens or pots on balconies, where its leaves can be easily harvested to sweeten drinks and food.
Native range
Paraguay and Brazil
Care tips
Stevia prefers full sun to partial shade and requires well-drained soil, rich in organic matter, and slightly acidic. Keep the substrate consistently moist, but avoid waterlogging, especially in pots. It is sensitive to frost, so in cold climates, it should be grown as an annual or protected. A common mistake is overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
How to save a dying Stevia
- Warning signs
- Yellowing/browning, wilting leaves, soft or dry stems. Stunted growth.
- First aid
- Check watering (moist but not soggy soil), light (partial sun), and temperature (warm, no extremes).
- What kills it
- Overwatering causing root rot or prolonged extreme dryness. Frost.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if roots aren't completely rotted and some stems are green. Act fast! 🌿