Ilex paraguariensis, commonly known as yerba mate, is a species of holly tree native to South America. It is extensively cultivated in Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay for its leaves, which are used to make a popular beverage called mate. The plant can grow up to 15 meters tall and features small white flowers that bloom in the spring. The leaves are rich in caffeine and other stimulants, making yerba mate a popular alternative to coffee or tea. For centuries, indigenous peoples have used yerba mate as a medicinal herb due to its various health benefits, including boosting energy levels, aiding digestion, and reducing inflammation. Today, millions of people around the world enjoy yerba mate as an invigorating drink with numerous health benefits.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Tree, Shrub
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Ilex
- Family
- Aquifoliaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 8-11
- Mature Height
- 10.06 m to 14.94 m
- Mature Spread
- 3.96 m to 6.1 m
- Leaf Color
- Green
- Leaf Type
- Evergreen
- Flower Color
- White, Green
- Flower Size
- 0.51 cm to 0.76 cm
- Bloom Time
- Mid fall, Late fall, Early winter
- Planting Time
- Spring, Summer
- Harvest Time
- Spring
- Native Area
- Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay, Brazil
Other names.
