Ilex paraguariensis YERBA MATE (10 seeds)

Yerba Mate, also known as Paraguayan tea or Ilex paraguariensis in Latin, is a tree reaching 3 to 4 meters in height, native to South America. Its growth is relatively slow, and it belongs to the Aquifoliaceae family.

The leaves of green mate are simple, alternate, and generally ovate to elliptical in shape. They measure approximately 5 to 10 cm long and 3 to 5 cm wide. Their edges are slightly serrated, and the surface is smooth and shiny with a leathery texture. The leaf color is typically dark green on top and lighter underneath. Its flowers are small, white or slightly greenish, and appear in axillary clusters in spring or late summer. They are hermaphroditic and have a star-like appearance.

The fruits are globular berries, measuring about 6 to 8 mm in diameter. They are initially green, then turn red at maturity. Each fruit generally contains between 4 to 6 seeds.

Yerba mate seeds are small, measuring 3 millimeters in length, flat, robust, slightly angular, and brownish in color. They are contained within the fruits and are primarily spread by birds that consume the berries and disperse the seeds through their droppings.

- Uses:

Paraguayan tea is cultivated mainly in Paraguay, Argentina, Uruguay, and southern Brazil. The Guarani people are recognized as the first to have cultivated this energizing herb. Unfortunately, it is a near-threatened species, notably due to the massive deforestation of tropical forests. Its leaves contain a high amount of caffeine. Prepared as an infusion, they possess numerous medicinal virtues. It continues to attract consumers worldwide for its beneficial properties.

- Germination and Sowing:

• The most favorable period to sow Ilex paraguariensis is in June, as it imperatively requires high heat to germinate correctly.
• Begin by lightly scarifying the seeds with sandpaper.
• Soak them in lukewarm water for 24 hours to break dormancy and accelerate germination.
• Sow in a tray with previously moistened and sifted peat.
• Bury them only 3 to 4 millimeters deep, then cover them.
• Use a sprayer to water the culture.
• Place the tray in a greenhouse in a warm, humid environment at a temperature close to 30°C to 40°C.
• Germination will generally begin after 4 to 8 weeks.

- Soil Type:

It needs soil rich in organic matter and slightly acidic to grow well. It is recommended to use peat or heather soil (terre de bruyère).

- Humidity:

"Jesuit tea" requires a lot of water, but it must never be stagnant; take care not to drown the plant.

- Light:

Argentine tea requires a lot of light; it should be placed in full sun, such as in a veranda. Regarding artificial lighting for indoor cultivation, HPS or MH lamps are preferred.

- Temperatures:

It develops very well when temperatures range from 25°C to 35°C. It is a frost-sensitive plant and fears negative temperatures. Therefore, it is preferable to cultivate it indoors.