Stevia Plant

Benefits of the Stevia Plant

With the increase in health concerns from overconsumption of sugar and its wasted calories, Stevia has become the newest sugar substitute and a better one than artificial sweeteners.

It is a zero calorie natural product with sweetness 30 times that of sugar, and can be used by diabetics since it does not affect blood glucose levels.

Growing Habits of Stevia Plant

Stevia Rebaudiana, commonly known as Sweetleaf, is the only Stevia plant variety that is sweet. With its semi-tropical origin, it requires very warm temperatures to thrive.

Plant as soon as possible after the last frost to avoid shock to the plant. A tender perennial which requires full sun and prefers sandy loam or raised beds or hills for good drainage, Stevia doesn't like to dry out.

On cooler nights, you may want to protect with a cover. The plant's brittle stems are susceptible to wind damage.

To produce sturdier plants, pinch out tips for the first few weeks to encourage a bushier growth.

Add 3 to 4 inches of organic mulch and water frequently, preferably with a soaker hose. Fertilize regularly with good compost.

Stevia is a slow starter until the summer heat kicks in, when it will grow to its full size of about a foot tall and one to two feet wide. Treat it as an annual in colder climates, and bring indoors in winter.

Seeds can be started indoors, under lights. They are slow germinators, and you may have to wait 2 months from starting seeds to transplanting to the garden.

In colder climates, you may prefer to keep Stevia in a pot outside so it can easily be brought indoors before frost.

Using Stevia

Stevia leaves can be added to hot or cold drinks. Combine them with tea herbs and mint for exciting combinations. You can also cook with Stevia, adding it to hot liquids for meats and vegetables.

Since it is 30 times sweeter than sugar, start with a very small amount and adjust to taste. Stevia can leave a slight aftertaste, but blends well in cooking and baking.

Unlike sugar, Stevia will not caramelize foods. As with any natural herb, stevia should be used in moderation.

Drying the plant for later use is quite simple. Simply tie a bunch of stems and hang upside down.

When the leaves are dry, strip the stems with your fingers and store in a can or jar. They will last for years.

You can also remove the leaves and dry them flat or in a dehydrator. You can find dried stevia leaves in natural health stores, sometimes marketed as a dietary supplement rather than a sugar substitute.

Considering the health benefits and ease of growing and harvesting this beneficial herb, it's well worth growing a Stevia plant or two in your herb garden.