Guide to Stevia Rebaudiana – the natural sweetener

An herbaceous perennial shrub, Stevia Rebaudiana is grown in the highlands of Paraguay and sections of Argentina and Brazil. Stevia was discovered by Antonio Bertoni, a South American Natural Scientist, in 1887. There are about 80 wild species of this plant in North America and another 200 species in South America. However, Stevia Rebaudiana is the only species to have the natural sweetness to replace artificial sweeteners.

Stevia Rebaudiana is a sub-tropical plant that requires a mean temperature of 75 degree F. and semi-humid weather conditions for growth. It needs approximately 55" rains each year for luxuriant growth. It is propagated naturally from scattered seed, root division and stem layering. This wondrous herb is also known as “Honey-Leaf”, “Sweet-Leaf” and “Sweet-Herb”.

Stevia sweeteners are available commercially in many forms including dried leaves, purified powders and liquid extracts.

Dried Stevia leaves

Stevia liquid sweetener and powdered stevia sweetener

Want to grow the Stevia Rebaudiana herb in your backyard.  Learn More.

The benefits of Stevia continue to grow.  See a partial list here.