250 Stevia Sweetleaf Herb Seeds for Planting - Natural Sugar Plant, Stevia rebaudiana

Grow your own natural sweetener with these 250 Stevia Sweetleaf (Stevia rebaudiana) herb seeds! Stevia is a perennial herb native to South America, prized for its incredibly sweet leaves that contain natural compounds called steviol glycosides. These leaves can be used fresh, dried, or powdered as a calorie-free, zero-glycemic-index alternative to sugar, perfect for teas, baking, and beverages.

**Growing Information:**
- **USDA Zones:** Typically grown as an annual in zones 9-11. In cooler climates (zones 3-8), it can be grown as a tender annual during the warm summer months or overwintered indoors.
- **Light Requirements:** Prefers full sun to partial shade. At least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily is ideal for optimal leaf production and sweetness.
- **Water Requirements:** Keep soil consistently moist but well-drained. Water regularly, especially during dry spells, but avoid waterlogging. Stevia prefers moderate humidity.
- **Germination:** Seeds are small and can be slow to germinate. For best results, start indoors 8-10 weeks before the last frost. Surface sow or lightly cover with soil, as seeds need light to germinate. Maintain a warm soil temperature (70-75°F). Transplant outdoors after all danger of frost has passed and soil has warmed.
- **Plant Size:** Mature plants typically reach 1-2 feet in height and width, with small white flowers if allowed to bloom.
- **Harvesting:** Leaves are sweetest just before flowering. Harvest leaves as needed throughout the growing season. For a larger harvest, cut stems back in mid-summer to encourage bushier growth.

**Note:** Seeds are for planting purposes. Results may vary based on growing conditions. This listing is for 250 Stevia Sweetleaf seeds.