Stevia Sweetleaf is a great addition to your herb garden, as it can grow as a perennial in USDA Zones 9-10 or indoors.
This perennial plant measures 24 inches in height and is commonly used as a natural sugar substitute.
You can apply the leaves directly to hot beverages or brew them into tea. 3 tablespoons of fresh leaves or 1 teaspoon of powder can effectively replace 1 cup of sugar. Stevia can sweeten any drink without adding calories or carbohydrates, and it is also safe for diabetics as it does not cause tooth decay.
Stevia can be grown from herb seeds and thrives in various soil types, but it prefers a sandy loam or loam soil that is rich in organic matter.
To obtain a full, lush plant in your herb garden, it is recommended to sow 10 seeds.