Description
The herbal drink is a plant that grows in subtropical regions like Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay. It has been consumed by indigenous communities for centuries as a cultural symbol and for its health benefits. The tea contains antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. It can provide an energy boost, aid digestion and support heart health when consumed.
In its native habitat, the shrubs can grow over 60 feet tall. South Americans may drink 1-4 liters of the herbal tea per day. The plant gives a euphoric feeling similar to chocolate. It also promotes digestion by increasing stomach acid and bile production which helps with regular bowel movements.
The South American plant is rare in the United States but available online. It may grow outdoors in very warm, tropical climates. Most households grow it as a houseplant from seeds or small plants. It grows slowly, taking about five years before leaves are ready for tea. The shrub thrives best in rich, acidic and moist soil.
Growing Conditions
Does the tea grow in Florida?
The evergreen tree grows in the subtropical region of South America. It is mainly grown in Argentina, Southern Brazil, Uruguay and Paraguay. The maté is part of the Aquifoliaceae family. In the wild, the South American plant grows up to 8 meters tall, but has been known to reach 18 meters.
The tea prefers high temperatures and humidity. This climate is ideal for growing the drink in Florida during the summer months.
Native Range
Where is the South American beverage found?
The Ilex Paraguariensis grows in the humid subtropical region of Argentina, in the provinces of Misiones and Corrientes, where rainfall reaches about 1800 millimeters per year and there is an average temperature of 21°C. These plants also need the red soils found in these regions, which provide the appropriate minerals and acid level.
The maté comes from the South American countries of Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay. The drink’s natural range includes an oval-shaped area that overlaps the northern tip of Argentina, southwestern Brazil, and southeastern Paraguay.
Production
What country produces the most South American tea?
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Brazil exports the most of the drink, almost 50 million kilograms in 2020. Argentina is second in export value.
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Syria imports the most of the herbal infusion. Syrian immigrants brought the tradition from South America.
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Each producing country has distinctive versions. The variation comes from harvest and processing methods. Argentina, Paraguay, Uruguay, and Brazil variants have different colors, tastes and strengths.