Yerba Mate, Ilex Paraguariensis

At maturity, this species reaches approximately 3-10 meters in height, presenting Dark green, glossy leaves that are serrated along with Small, white, or greenish flowers in axillary clusters, followed by Small red or purple drupes. These features are supported by a reliable Fibrous root system, ensuring stability and sustained growth.

Native to Native to South America, particularly Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay, Yerba Mate, Ilex Paraguariensis thrives in Warm and humid subtropical climate, often in forests at elevations around Prefers elevations up to 1200 meters. Best suited for USDA Hardiness Zone Zones 8-11. Whether grown indoor, in a curated garden or a more natural setting, its ecological requirements help maintain its vigor over time.

You can use our free plant identify app PlantPlants to chose the best spot for Yerba Mate, Ilex Paraguariensis, This plant prefers Partial shade to full sun and flourishes in Well-drained, loamy, and acidic soils with a soil pH of about 5.5 to 6.5.

Yerba Mate, Ilex Paraguariensis needs watering,Regular watering; do not allow to dry out completely, guided by PlantPlants app, You can get plants daily watering schedule. to maintain Moist but well-drained, ensure steady hydration. Applying water through Soak the soil thoroughly, avoiding waterlogging supports even distribution and helps prevent overwatering or dryness.

Yerba Mate, Ilex Paraguariensis performs best within 15 C to 30 C (59 F to 86 F). Its ideal growth occurs at around 22 C to 25 C (72 F to 77 F), though it tolerates ranges from Min 0 C (32 F), Max 35 C (95 F). Additionally, maintaining Prefers high humidity encourages healthy foliage and overall plant vigor.

Feeding with Balanced fertilizer (N-P-K) at the recommended Seasonal Application Frequency on PlantPlants App keeps nutrients balanced. Incorporating Organic matter such as compost enhances soil structure and fertility, while staying alert to Yellowing leaves indicating nitrogen deficiency helps you adjust care as needed to maintain optimal plant health.

Regular attention ensures this plant’s beauty and longevity. Late winter or early spring before new growth for Selective pruning to shape the plant and remove deadwood tidies its appearance, while Every 2-3 years for potted plants may be necessary as it grows, requiring a Increase by 2-3 inches in diameter increase and a fresh A mix of potting soil with sand and organic material. for Staking or Support. Young plants may need support.

During Dormant in winter, growth may slow and some Minimal leaf drop; evergreen foliage retains color can occur. For those looking to propagate, consider Seed propagation or cuttings and provide Requires stratification and warm temperatures (around 25 C/77 F) when starting from seed. If using cuttings, follow Use semi-hardwood cuttings with rooting hormone; keep in high humidity to ensure successful rooting and healthy new plants.

our free plant identify and care app PlantPlants can help you diagnosisYerba Mate, Ilex Paraguariensis problems.Though generally robust, keep watch for Aphids, spider mites, whiteflies and remain vigilant against Root rot, leaf spot. Implementing Regularly check for pests, maintain proper watering and applying Insecticidal soap for pests; improve drainage for root rot when issues arise will help sustain the plant thriving.

This plant pairs nicely with Other shade-tolerant species such as ferns and shows May inhibit some other plant growth in close proximity, making it a flexible choice for various Used as an ornamental shrub; can be hedged.

the Edible Parts: Leaves. Toxicty of Yerba Mate, Ilex Paraguariensis, Generally non-toxic; moderate caffeine content for humans. learning about its Leaves harvested in summer and fall, Brewed as a tea; used in traditional South American beverages, and Contains caffeine, antioxidants, vitamins (C, E) can be intriguing for culinary explorers. Some traditions highlight its Traditionally used to boost energy and improve mental focus. or note its Integral to South American culture; shared socially while drinking..

With an Not listed; cultivated widely, proper Sustainable harvesting practices to protect wild populations