Climate matters. This page is a practical baseline. Confirm cultivar, local frost/heat conditions, mature size and regional restrictions before planting.
Stevia — Growing reference
| Scientific name | Stevia rebaudiana |
|---|---|
| Seed germination (days) | 7–14 |
| Soil temperature for germination (°C) | 20–25.6 |
| First harvest or flowering (days) | 90–120 |
| Measured from | Transplant |
| Plant spacing (cm) | 45.7–61 |
| Mature height (cm) | 45.7–91.4 |
| Mature spread (cm) | 30.5–45.7 |
| USDA hardiness zones | 9–11 |
| Light | Full sun |
| Water | Moderate |
| Sowing method | indoor-start |
Growing directions
Sow seeds shallowly, just pressing them into moist seed-starting mix, as light aids germination; note that germination rates for stevia seed can be inconsistent. Transplant into well-drained, fertile soil after temperatures are reliably warm, and water consistently—stevia is sensitive to both drought and waterlogging. Pinch growing tips early to encourage a bushy form with more harvestable leaf area. Harvest leaves before the plant flowers, when glycoside content (sweetness) is at its peak; dry or use fresh.
Source and local conditions
Typical planning ranges from OpenPlantDB (CC0). Cultivar, climate, season and growing method can change these values. Confirm the seed label and local guidance before planting.
Source & verification
OpenPlantDB · CC0