Yerba Mate

Ilex paraguariensis

Yerba mate begins as a shrub and then matures to a tree and can grow up to 49 ft tall. The leaves are evergreen.  The leaves are often called yerba (Spanish) or erva (Portuguese), both of which mean “herb”. They contain caffeine (known in some parts of the world as mateine) and also contains related xanthine alkaloids and are harvested commercially.  Prefers dappled sun and moderate water. Available in 1 gallon pots.