Ilex paraguariensis YERBA MATE (plant)

Argentine tea, also known as Yerba Mate or scientifically as Ilex paraguariensis, is a small tree reaching about 3 meters in height.
It belongs to the Aquifoliaceae family, the same family as holly. It is native to Argentina, as well as Paraguay.

The foliage of paraguayan tea tree is dense and evergreen. The fragrant leaves are oval, measuring between 6 and 12 cm in length. They are dark green with a leathery texture and grow alternately along the stems.

The flowering is less remarkable than the foliage. The flowers generally appear in clusters during the summer. They are small, white, and possess very thin petals.

- Properties:

Paraguayan mate is traditionally consumed in South America, particularly in Argentina, Paraguay, and Brazil. It is deeply rooted in the culture of these countries and is often consumed socially, ritually, and communally. It is prepared by infusing dried leaves in hot water and is drunk using a bombilla (a metal straw with a filter).

In addition to being a social beverage, it is recognized for its stimulating properties. It contains caffeine and is rich in antioxidants. It is also used for its benefits regarding concentration, digestion, and the reduction of fatigue. Its leaves contain between 0.3% and 1.9% caffeine.

- Planting and Cultivation:

• Plant yerba mate root ball just above the collar in a 5 to 10-liter pot, then firm the soil gently.
• Use a slightly acidic substrate based on heather soil or peat.
• Remember to drain the bottom of the pot well with a layer of gravel or clay pebbles.
• Water the crop copiously at the base of the plant.
• Place it in a warm and bright location.

- Substrate:

Paraguayan tea tree prefers well-drained, humus-rich soil that is high in organic matter and slightly acidic.

- Exposure:

It prefers a sunny exposure but can also tolerate partial shade. However, sufficient sunlight promotes better growth.

- Watering:

Watering must be regular, especially during periods of active growth. It is crucial to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, as this can cause root rot issues.

- Hardiness:

Only at adult size is it relatively hardy, capable of withstanding temperatures down to approximately -5°C for short periods. However, it is preferable to protect it from frosts at the end of the autumn period. It is cultivated in warm climate zones (USDA zones 8 to 11).

- Reproduction / Multiplication:

There are three different ways to reproduce it: by seed, by stem cuttings (which is very delicate), or by layering (burying a stem of the mother plant so that it forms roots while remaining attached to the tree).

- Diseases / Pests:

It is sometimes attacked by fungal diseases such as Anthracnose, which forms dark spots on the leaves, or powdery mildew, which causes a white felty coating on the leaves. Insects such as aphids or scale insects (mealybugs) can also weaken the plant by sucking its sap.