The plant is an evergreen tree that grows mainly in Argentina, Southern Brazil, Uruguay and Paraguay. It is part of the Aquifoliaceae family which includes Holly. In the wild, the tree grows up to 8 meters tall, but has reached 18 meters. While traditionally grown in South America, the plant can also be grown indoors with well-drained soil, bright light and medium to high humidity. However, unless you live in a very hot, humid area with heavy rainfall, the tree likely won’t thrive in your garden so growing it indoors is best if temperatures stay above 60 degrees Fahrenheit year-round.
Indoor Growing
When growing the plant indoors, start with a healthy, disease-free plant with strong roots and vibrant leaves from a reputable nursery. You can also grow from seeds but this takes more time and patience. Below are some things to consider when growing the tea. The tea leaves can be reused by adding more hot water, intensifying the flavor with each infusion. The tea contains caffeine, theobromine and theophylline along with antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. This healthy blend of stimulants provides an invigorating effect.
Botanical Information
Ilex paraguariensis is the botanical name for the tree which grows in Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay and Paraguay. The leaves are naturally caffeinated and used to make a traditional tea, often served in a calabash with a filtering straw. The plant has its origins in folklore, being called a “herb from the gods” by indigenous peoples due to its health benefits. They used it in medicines and to increase stamina.
Native Growing Regions
Geographically, the tree is usually grown in Argentina, Southern Brazil, Uruguay and Paraguay. It’s been introduced in Hawaii. Plant outdoors if your area has generally high temperatures and humidity, otherwise grow indoors above sixty degrees Fahrenheit.
Is it a Tree or Plant?
The tea is made from the leaves of the evergreen tree native to the subtropical regions of South America. The plant grows wild in the rainforests and is also cultivated on plantations.
Preferred Growing Temperature
The plant thrives in temperatures between 65-80°F (18-27°C). It prefers moderate humidity levels, around 50-60%. High humidity can create mold and mildew.
It is possible to grow plants indoors. Look for a healthy plant from a reputable nursery or supplier specializing in plants. You can also grow your own plant from seeds, although this requires more time and patience.
The tea contains caffeine.
The tree grows up to 8 meters high. The highest quality product is shade-grown under rainforest canopies away from sunlight. This allows leaves to retain nutrients and flavor.
If planting indoors, keep temperatures above 60°F. Plants grow best in moist, warm climates as their habitat is subtropical regions. Grow them in pots indoors in loamy, well-drained soil.
Leaf Processing at Home
The plant is native to South America. Its leaves and twigs are used to make a tea called mate. This tea contains caffeine and is a popular beverage in countries like Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay and Brazil.
To prepare mate, start by filling a cup halfway with water and letting the leaves absorb it for a few minutes. Once the leaves have swelled up, add more hot water between 80-100°F. The ratio is around 2-3 teaspoons of product per 8 oz cup. You can adjust this to taste.
The traditional way to drink mate is using a hollowed out gourd along with a metal straw. There are many styles of mate gourds to choose from. When choosing your first gourd as a beginner, go for a simple classic one that can help you get used to the earthy, grassy taste of mate.
It’s important to have good growing conditions for plants. They need enough space and sunlight as well as proper air circulation to prevent disease. The plants can also exhibit symptoms like yellowing leaves if overwatered or lacking in nutrients. To rescue them, reduce watering and ensure adequate sunlight and nutrition.
The tea offers stimulating and refreshing properties comparable to coffee or tea. It can improve athletic performance and stimulate the brain without the jitters of coffee. While not well known globally, it is slowly gaining popularity for its health benefits.