DescriptionYerba Mate (Ilex paraguariensis) is also known as Paraguay Tea and Mate. Tea is the most-consumed beverage in South America. It is valued as a tonic tea, with no undesirable stimulant effects. Traditionally, this drink is often sweetened with the leaves of Stevia, a native plant that grows in the same area as Mate and is approved by the German Commission E as a remedy for fatigue. Very rich in essential vitamins and minerals. When cultivated, it is kept pruned into a compact bush to facilitate harvesting the leaves. The Yerba Mate plant is native to Paraguay and prefers rich, moist soils on riverbanks in a protected, shaded position. Drought and frost tender. An evergreen shrub, growing to 6m x 4m.
