Stevia rebaudiana / Tender Perennial

Stevia is the sweetest naturally grown product. It is sweeter than sugar, has virtually no calories, and doesn’t raise blood sugar levels or promote tooth decay. Stevia, which enjoys full sun, will reach about 18–20″ in height, and produce tiny white flowers. Harvest its leaves and use fresh or dried. You can make an extract by combining 1 cup warm water with 1/2 cup chopped fresh (or dried and crushed) leaves in a jar with a lid. Let stand for 24 hours, then filter through a strainer with a coffee filter. Refrigerate in a covered container for as long as a month.