Stevia rebaudiana or candyleaf is widely grown for its sweet leaves that are becoming well known as a healthy substitute for sugar. Stevia is grown commercially to make steviol. The leaves may be eaten straight from the plant, used to sweeten food and drinks, or made into tea. Candyleaf has a host of medicinal benefits including antioxidant, antimicrobial, antiviral and antitumour properties. A tender perennial often grown as an annual. Height: 60cm (24in).

Sowing

Sow indoors at any time. Surface sow onto moist, well-drained seed compost. Just cover seed with a sprinkling of soil. Place in a propagator or seal in a polythene bag to maintain humidity. Place somewhere warm, with an ideal a temperature of 25-27C. Germination takes approx. 1-2 weeks.

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Transplant seedlings when large enough to handle to individual pots and grow on under glass. Plant out only in warm weather, when all risk of frost has passed.