Stevia

Stevia rebaudiana

herb

verifiedReviewed by the GreenScout Team

Stevia is a tender perennial shrub native to South America, prized for its intensely sweet leaves that contain zero calories and are used as a natural sugar substitute. The plant produces small white flowers and narrow green leaves that are harvested for both fresh use and drying. It requires warm, frost-free conditions and well-draining soil to thrive.

Common Problems

Select the problem your Stevia is experiencing to get a treatment guide.

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Yellow Leaveschevron_right

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Slow Growthchevron_right

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Wiltingchevron_right

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Underwateringchevron_right

Care Guide

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Light

Full sun (6–8 hours daily); partial shade tolerated in hot climates

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Water

Moderate, consistent moisture; water when top inch of soil is dry. Avoid waterlogging; ensure good drainage.

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Soil

Well-draining, fertile soil with organic matter. Prefers slightly acidic soil (pH 6.0–7.0).

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Fertiliser

Light fertilizing every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced or slightly nitrogen-rich fertilizer.

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Temperature

Warm temperatures required; prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C). Frost-tender; protect or bring indoors below 50°F (10°C).

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Humidity

Moderate humidity; prefers 40–60%. Avoid excessive moisture on foliage to prevent fungal issues.

Toxicity

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Non-toxic; leaves are safe for human consumption. Generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA.

Common Diseases

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Common Pests

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Seasonal Care

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Resume regular watering and feeding as growth picks up.

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Peak growing season. Water and feed regularly.

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Reduce watering as growth slows. Stop heavy feeding.

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Minimal watering and feeding. Protect from frost if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my Stevia need such careful frost protection?

As a tender perennial native to South America, it's frost-tender and should be protected or brought indoors below 50°F — it needs warm, frost-free conditions year-round to thrive.