Ilex paraguariensis

Yerba Mate is an evergreen shrub native to eastern South America, particularly in Paraguay, Argentina, Brazil, and Uruguay. This plant species is famous for the culinary use of its leaves, which are the main ingredient in the traditional South American beverage known as Maté. Maté is a caffeinated drink that has been enjoyed in much of South America for hundreds of years. This culturally significant drink is still wildly popular today and is gaining some global recognition for its potential as a tea or coffee alternative.

In ideal conditions plants can grow to reach over twenty feet in height, but are often smaller in garden settings. Yerba Mate trees are adaptable and easy to grow, preferring part shade and regular watering. Try growing Yerba Mate yourself and you'll have no shortage of leaves for your daily Maté latte.

Cold hardy to USDA zone 8b or to 15 degrees Fahrenheit.

For sale are one gallon potted plants