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Quick Overview
Yerba mate (Ilex paraguariensis) is a subtropical tree, but with the right warmth, humidity, and soil you can grow one at home, outdoors in a warm climate or in a pot by a sunny window. Here is what it needs, and how to start from seeds or cuttings.
In this article, you'll learn:
- The climate and soil yerba mate needs
- How big the tree gets, indoors and out
- How to care for it: light, feeding, pruning, pests
- How to start from seeds or cuttings
Interested in growing something a little different on your property, or on your windowsill? A yerba mate tree is a fun project, and once it is established, its leaves are the very same ones you dry and brew into mate. Here is what you need to know to grow one.
Can you grow yerba mate at home?
You can, as long as you can match its climate. Yerba mate comes from the subtropical regions of South America and prefers humid, warm conditions with plenty of rainfall. It does best when temperatures stay above about 60 degrees Fahrenheit.
The plant can tolerate cooler temperatures for short spells, but if it drops below roughly 40 degrees, the tree may not survive. It is similar with humidity: it can handle a dry spell, but if your area sits below about 50% humidity, an outdoor plant will struggle. If your climate is not ideal, you can often grow one indoors on a bright windowsill, using rich soil that holds moisture well.
How big does a yerba mate tree get?
In the wild, yerba mate trees can grow to over eight meters, sometimes taller, with oval leaves about five inches long. How tall yours gets depends largely on light. An indoor, potted plant will usually stay much smaller, around two to three feet.
Where and how should you grow it?
Geographically, yerba mate is grown mainly in Argentina, southern Brazil, Uruguay, and Paraguay, and it has been introduced in Hawaii. If your area is reliably warm and humid, you can try growing outdoors. Otherwise, keep it indoors and above about 60 degrees Fahrenheit.
A few care basics go a long way:
- Soil: slightly acidic, up to a pH just below 7, and moisture-retaining.
- Light: aim for sunlight at least half the day.
- Feeding: use a balanced, nitrogen-rich compost or organic fertilizer, applied about weekly through summer and fall. Mineral-rich feeding tends to give a more full-flavored leaf.
- Pruning: prune regularly, especially indoors, or the leaves will grow outward quickly. Bonus: the foliage you trim can be dried and brewed.
- Pests and weeds: weed carefully around young plants so they are not smothered, and keep the tree away from other plants affected by mealybugs.
How do you start from seeds or cuttings?
You can find yerba mate seeds and plants at nurseries that specialize in culinary plants, though they are uncommon at ordinary garden centers. Organic grocery stores and herb shops are worth a look too, and plenty is available online.
Seeds can be tricky, because they need to be stratified (cooled) first, and they may take anywhere from six months to a year to germinate. Cuttings are often easier: take semi-woody cuttings in late summer and treat them with a rooting hormone before planting.
What happens after harvest?
Once the leaves are harvested, they are separated from sticks and stems, then flash-heated and moved into drying chambers. The dried yerba is aged, and depending on the producer it may be smoked or roasted, which trades some of the fresh, green character for a toastier flavor. Finally it is blended, packaged, and shipped. If you are curious about the full journey, our guide from seed to drink covers it in detail.
Tip
Growing enough leaf to brew regularly takes patience and a mature plant. Most home growers enjoy the tree as a project and keep buying their everyday yerba, which is far quicker to reach for.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I grow yerba mate indoors?
Yes. In cooler climates, a potted plant on a bright windowsill works well, as long as you keep it above about 60 degrees Fahrenheit in rich, moisture-holding soil.
How long does yerba mate take to grow from seed?
Seeds need to be stratified first and can take six months to a year to germinate. Cuttings taken in late summer are usually a faster, easier start.
What temperature does yerba mate need?
It prefers warmth above about 60 degrees Fahrenheit and humidity above roughly 50%. Below about 40 degrees, the plant may not survive.
Can I brew mate from my own plant?
In principle, yes, the leaves are the same species used commercially. In practice, you need a mature plant and some drying know-how, so most home growers still buy their everyday yerba.
Growing your own
If you are wondering how to grow a yerba mate tree, start with your climate and be honest about whether an outdoor tree or a smaller indoor plant suits you best. Either way, it is a rewarding plant to tend. And while your tree matures, you can keep enjoying the real thing: explore our yerba mate and starter kits.
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From Seed to Drink: Everything About Yerba Mate Production