Also known as Azucaca · Stevia · Sugar Leaf
Candyleaf (Stevia rebaudiana) is a small, shrubby plant native to Paraguay, cultivated for its intensely sweet leaves used as a natural zero-calorie sweetener.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full sun
75% intensity
Prefers at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Consistently moist, but avoid waterlogging
50% intensity
Allow the top 2-3 cm of soil to dry out between waterings.
Sandy, Loam, Clay
50% intensity
Warm
75% intensity
Thrives in temperatures between 18-25°C. Protect from frost.
Outdoor
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | Yes |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Stevia rebaudiana prefers consistently moist soil but dislikes waterlogging. Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry to the touch.
Reduce watering in cooler months or when the plant is not actively growing to prevent root rot. Ensure good drainage to avoid issues.
Prune stevia regularly to encourage bushier growth and improve leaf yield. Pinch back the tips of young plants to promote branching.
In the fall, cut back the plant by about one-third to prepare it for overwintering or for harvesting the leaves.
Stevia rebaudiana can be propagated from seeds, but germination can be slow and erratic. It is more reliably propagated from stem cuttings taken in spring or early summer.
Root cuttings in water or a well-draining potting mix under warm conditions.
Repot stevia plants annually or when they become root-bound, typically in the spring. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one and ensure it has ample drainage holes.
Use a light, well-draining potting mix to support healthy root development.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Candyleaf (Stevia rebaudiana)
Where Candyleaf (Stevia rebaudiana) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Stevia |
| Species | Stevia rebaudiana |
Similar in genus Stevia
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
