Stevia is a natural sweetener. The leaves are extremely sweet - I pop them in my mouth and chew on them all the time. It an herbal substitute for sugar. The leaves and stems can be dried and ground into a powder. Steviocide is the active ingredient that creates the sweet taste.But historically it has also been used medicinally to treat hearing problems, obesity, hypertension, heartburn, and hypoglycemia. It is also an antifungal, a diuretic, and a tonic for those with diabetes and high blood pressure.
Stevia is an annual unless it is lifted and kept in a greenhouse. It can become very floppy if it is not trimmed - mine is laying down across a path. I should cut it back. Morning sun and afternoon shade is best for this plant. It doesn't grow from seed successfully. Transplants or stem cuttings are the best way to grow this plant.
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