Candyleaf (Stevia rebaudiana)

Also known as: Sweetleaf

Stevia, also known as Candyleaf or Sweet Leaf, belongs to the sunflower family. In tropical regions, it grows as a perennial, while in cooler climates, it is cultivated as an annual. Its sweet leaves are used to produce extracts, sugar substitutes, and are also added to teas and desserts.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting

Attributes of Candyleaf

Lifespan

Perennial, Annual

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

30 cm to 61 cm

Spread

60 cm

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

5 cm to 10 cm

Flower Color

White

Images of Candyleaf

Quickly Identify Candyleaf

Oppositely arranged oblong leaves with serrated edges and sweet taste (25-30 times sweeter than sucrose).

Small white flowers with light purple accents, tubular shape, and clustered arrangement (2-6 florets per cluster).

Petite, bristly, one-seeded fruit with hardy protective shell and subtle coloration blending with foliage.

Slender, floopy green stems measuring 0.12-0.2 inches (3-5 mm) in thickness, displaying a zig-zag growth pattern.

Non-noteworthy, free-flowering flowers lacking scent, enhancing modest appearance with clustered, inconspicuous nature.

Scientific Classification of Candyleaf

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Asterales

Family

Daisy

Genus

Candyleaf

Species

Candyleaf

Planting and Growing of Candyleaf

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 2 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

6-10 hours

Ideal Temperature

70-85℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Candyleaf?

Stevia rebaudiana prefers its soil to be kept consistently moist but not waterlogged. The goal is to water until the soil is saturated but not pooling, typically around 250 ml per watering session, depending on the pot size and drainage capabilities.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Candyleaf? ›

What should I do if my Candyleaf is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Candyleaf? ›

How to save an overwatered Candyleaf? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Candyleaf?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, Partial sun

Duration of light: 6-8 hours daily

Stevia excels in full to partial sun exposure. Ideal lighting facilitates vigorous growth, enhances leaf sweetness, and optimizes the plant's photosynthetic efficiency.

What is Stevia's ideal light source? ›

How to achieve ideal lighting indoors? ›

Benefits of optimal sun exposure for Stevia? ›

More About Sunlight Requirements Techniques→

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Candyleaf?

Ideal Temperature: 70 ~ 85℉

Stevia rebaudiana thrives in environments with consistent warmth and minimal temperature fluctuations. The ideal temperature range for optimal growth is between 70°F and 85°F, as this range simulates its native subtropical climate where nutrient uptake and photosynthesis are most efficient.

What Soil is Best for Candyleaf?

Soil type: Sandy loam, Loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Stevia rebaudiana thrives in well-drained soil because excessive water can cause root rot, limiting nutrient uptake. This drainage system allows roots to access oxygen, ensuring the plant's vigorous growth. Maintaining consistent moisture is crucial for Stevia rebaudiana, as dry periods can stunt its growth. Adequate moisture supports the plant's ability to absorb nutrients, resulting in sweeter leaves. Stevia rebaudiana flourishes in nutrient-rich soil. These nutrients fuel its growth and promote the development of robust, healthy leaves, ultimately increasing the plant's yield and quality.

How to Fertilize Candyleaf?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Stevia rebaudiana, a balanced fertilizer is key. Using a water-soluble 10-10-10 NPK fertilizer, apply about 1 tablespoon per gallon of water for liquid feedings. For slow-release granules, use approximately 1 to 2 tablespoons per plant spread evenly around the base.

How to Prune Candyleaf?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer, Autumn

Start by identifying leggy or overgrown stems that lack leaf density. These typically appear spindly and extend much beyond the rest of the plant. Cutting these back encourages bushier growth. Make cuts just above a node where leaves join the stem. This is where new shoots will emerge. Ensuring cuts are at a node will promote a more compact and dense plant structure. Regular trimming helps keep the plant at an optimal size for easier management. Prune to shape the plant, ensuring that it fits well in your garden or pot and receives adequate sunlight throughout. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Candyleaf plant?

Propagate Time: Late spring,Early summer

Soak Stevia rebaudiana seeds in warm water for 24 hours before planting. This helps to break seed dormancy and increases the germination rate by allowing moisture to penetrate the seed coat.

Select healthy, non-flowering stem segments from a mature plant. Trim about 4-6 inches of stem just below a node using a sterilized pruner. Remove lower leaves to expose nodes that will root.

Plant seeds or cuttings in a sterile, well-draining medium. For seeds, place them on the surface and cover lightly. For cuttings, insert into the medium ensuring at least two nodes are covered.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Candyleaf plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 1-2 years

Stevia rebaudiana typically shows signs of needing repotting when its roots begin to circle the pot or break through drainage holes. Additionally, if the water you pour in takes a long time to soak into the soil or runs off quickly, it may indicate compacted soil needing replacement. Optimal repotting takes place in spring or early summer when the plant is naturally growing.

Choose a pot that is about 2 inches larger in diameter than the current one. Ensure it has several drainage holes to prevent root rot. A slightly larger pot allows for root growth while ensuring the plant doesn't become waterlogged, promoting healthier and more vigorous growth patterns.

Opt for a well-draining potting mix that contains a balance of peat, perlite, and coarse sand. This mix provides the ideal environment for Stevia's roots, ensuring that they remain healthy and aerated. A well-draining soil prevents excess moisture retention, reducing the risk of root rot and keeping the plant thriving.

More About Repotting Techniques→