{"product_id":"ilex-paraguariensis","title":"Ilex paraguariensis (Yerba Mate) - Yerba Mate tea plant","description":"\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIlex paraguariensis\u003c\/strong\u003e, also known as \u003cstrong\u003eyerba mate or mate tree\u003c\/strong\u003e, is a \u003cstrong\u003eperennial evergreen\u003c\/strong\u003e plant from the Aquifoliaceae family, native to South America, especially Paraguay, Argentina, and Brazil. This species is widely cultivated for its leaves used in the \u003cstrong\u003epreparation of the traditional mate infusion\u003c\/strong\u003e, rich in caffeine and antioxidants. It is a versatile plant, suitable for tropical gardens, as an ornamental tree, or for leaf production, offering a dense and deep green appearance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThe leaves of \u003cstrong\u003eYerba Mate (Ilex paraguariensis)\u003c\/strong\u003e are used to prepare the famous tonic drink rich in antioxidants. Studies show that due to its caffeine, xanthines, and polyphenols content, it has a stimulating effect, improves concentration and physical performance, supports immunity, accelerates metabolism, and may help with weight control. It also contributes to blood sugar regulation and heart protection through its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4 dir=\"auto\"\u003eLeaf and Flower Appearance\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul dir=\"auto\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLeaves: The leaves are oval, with serrated edges, 7-10 cm long, dark glossy green, with a leathery texture. They are arranged alternately and provide a dense, aromatic background with a slightly bitter smell when crushed.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFlowers: The flowers are small, white or greenish-white, grouped in axillary clusters, appearing in spring (March-May). They are inconspicuous and attract pollinators such as bees.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch4 dir=\"auto\"\u003eGrowth Characteristics\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul dir=\"auto\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHeight and Width: It reaches 6-15 m in height and 4-6 m in width in natural conditions, forming a small tree or dense shrub. In cultivation, it can be kept more compact by pruning.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eVigor: Moderate to fast growth, with woody, branched stems forming a rounded crown.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eType: Evergreen tree or shrub, perennial.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch4 dir=\"auto\"\u003eGrowing Conditions\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul dir=\"auto\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eExposure: Prefers partial shade or semi-shade, ideally under trees with sparse crowns. Tolerates full sun in humid climates, but intense direct light can burn the leaves.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSoil: Grows in fertile, moist, well-drained soils with slightly acidic to neutral pH (5.5-7). Add compost or organic matter to improve moisture retention.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWatering: Water regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. It is sensitive to prolonged drought but tolerates high humidity.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTemperature: Hardy in zones 9-11 (down to -5°C for short periods). In Romania, it is grown as a greenhouse or indoor plant, protected from frost.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch4 dir=\"auto\"\u003eCare and Resistance\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul dir=\"auto\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eResistance: Resistant to high humidity and wet soils but sensitive to extreme cold and drought. Can be affected by aphids or fungi in wet conditions; inspect regularly and treat with organic methods.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) in spring, every 4-6 weeks. Avoid excess nitrogen.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePruning: Prune in spring to maintain shape and remove dead branches. Can be shaped as a compact shrub.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePropagation: Propagated by seeds, stem cuttings, or root division in spring.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNote: Leaves contain caffeine.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch4 dir=\"auto\"\u003eUses\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIlex paraguariensis\u003c\/strong\u003e is ideal for leaf production for \u003cstrong\u003emate tea\u003c\/strong\u003e, but also as an ornamental tree in tropical gardens. The dried leaves are used for \u003cstrong\u003eenergizing infusions\u003c\/strong\u003e. It pairs well with other tropical plants like banana trees or ferns and attracts pollinators, contributing to biodiversity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4 dir=\"auto\"\u003eOrigin\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003eNative to South America, especially Paraguay, Argentina, and Brazil, where it grows in humid forests. It was domesticated by indigenous peoples and is widely cultivated for its stimulating properties.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'San Francisco', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif; font-size: 0.875rem;\"\u003ePlant height: approx. 40-50 cm\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePot diameter: 12 cm\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Secret Garden Outdoor","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":55231375016262,"sku":null,"price":16.95,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0558\/5551\/3798\/files\/Yerba_Mate_Tea.jpg?v=1759989361","url":"https:\/\/sicretgarden.com\/en-at\/products\/ilex-paraguariensis","provider":"Secret Garden Plant Shop","version":"1.0","type":"link"}