Yerba Mate

(Ilex paraguariensis)

Yerba Mate (Ilex paraguariensis)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Ilex paraguariensis, commonly known as Yerba Mate, is an evergreen tree or shrub native to the subtropical Atlantic forests and savanna-like regions of South America, particularly in Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay. As a plant that transitions from a shrub to a tree, it can reach up to 49 feet (15 meters) in height. Yerba Mate has leathery, ovate leaves that are used to make the traditional South American beverage, mate, which is rich in caffeine and other xanthine alkaloids. The leaves, referred to as yerba in Spanish or erva in Portuguese, meaning "herb," are harvested commercially. The inconspicuous flowers are small, greenish-white, and have four petals, typically blooming in spring.

Yerba Mate is valued for its leaves, which are steeped to create a stimulating drink. It is not commonly grown for ornamental purposes but is cultivated for its harvestable leaves. In cultivation, it requires full sun to part shade, consistent moisture, and well-drained soils. It is adaptable to a range of soil types but prefers acidic conditions. While it is not typically prone to serious pests or diseases, it can suffer from root rot in poorly drained soils. Yerba Mate is not widely cultivated outside its native range, and there is little risk of invasiveness. Transplanting is best done from April to September for plants established in pots.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Shrub, Tree
  • Height: 30-50 feet
  • Width: 10-15 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Green
  • Flowering Season: Fall, Winter
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium, High
  • Drainage: Fast

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Fragrant, Low Maintenance, Rabbit Resistant

Natural Habitat

Subtropical Atlantic forests and savanna-like regions in Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay

Other Names

Common Names: Brazilian-Tea, Paraguayan-Tea, Paraguay Tea, Mateteestrauch, Mate, Thé Du Paraguay, Erva-Mate

Scientific Names: , Ilex paraguariensis, Ilex paraguayensis, Ilex theaezans, Ilex paraguariensis f. domestica, Ilex paraguariensis var. genuina, Ilex domestica, Ilex sorbilis, Ilex congonhas, Ilex paraguariensis f. latifolia

GBIF Accepted Name: Ilex paraguariensis A.St.-Hil.