Ilex paraguariensis is an evergreen South American tree grown for its glossy foliage and traditional use in yerba maté beverages.

The plant develops a branching habit with oval, slightly toothed green leaves. Mature plants produce small pale flowers followed by rounded red berries.

The dried and processed leaves are traditionally infused in hot or cold water throughout Paraguay, Argentina, Uruguay and southern Brazil.

In the UK, Yerba Maté is best grown as a greenhouse, conservatory or container plant. It prefers warm, humid conditions and protection from severe frost.

Plant Details

Botanical name: Ilex paraguariensis
Common names: Yerba Maté, Paraguay Tea
Plant family: Aquifoliaceae
Habit: Evergreen subtropical shrub or tree
Potential height: Approximately 2–4 metres in a large container, depending on pruning
Foliage: Glossy, oval green leaves with lightly toothed edges
Flowers: Small pale flowers
Fruit: Small rounded berries ripening to red
Position: Bright partial shade or filtered sun
Suitable for: Greenhouses, conservatories, patios and large containers
Hardiness: Tender and not reliably frost hardy

Growing Advice

Grow your Yerba Maté in fertile, moisture-retentive but well-draining compost. A slightly acidic compost is preferred.

Keep the compost consistently moist during active growth but avoid waterlogging. Yerba Maté generally responds poorly to prolonged drought.

Place the plant in a bright position protected from intense midday greenhouse sun, particularly while young. Warmth, humidity and shelter from drying winds will support steady growth.

Feed regularly during spring and summer with a balanced liquid fertiliser suitable for acid-loving plants.

Plants may be moved outside during warm summer weather after being gradually acclimatised. Protect them from cold winds and bring them under cover before temperatures fall significantly in autumn.

Overwinter in a bright, frost-free greenhouse or conservatory. Keeping the plant above approximately 7–10°C is recommended for young container-grown specimens.

Flowering in the UK

Yerba Maté may eventually produce flowers under greenhouse or conservatory conditions, although seed-grown plants can take several years to reach maturity.

Male and female flowers may occur on separate plants, so a single plant may not produce berries.

Flowering and berry production cannot be guaranteed in the UK.

What You Will Receive

You will receive one Yerba Maté plant growing in a 2-litre pot. Plants are typically dispatched at approximately 20–30 cm tall.

Plant shape, branching and leaf size will vary according to age and growing conditions.

Important Information

Yerba Maté leaves naturally contain caffeine and other stimulant compounds.

Leaves intended for beverages are traditionally harvested, dried and processed before use. Do not consume raw plant material without understanding the appropriate preparation methods.

The berries are not intended for consumption. Keep the plant away from children and pets that may chew the foliage or fruit.