Eetbare tuin-edible garden Ilex paraguariensis - Maté plant - Yerba maté

• Article number: GLYGLA01

The Mate plant, also known as Ilex paraguariensis, originally hails from South America and thrives best in a warm location with ample sunlight. Optimal growth is achieved in well-draining soil. Ensure regular watering, keeping the soil consistently moist without causing waterlogging. Ample space for growth is essential. The plant needs to winter frost-free with a minimum temperature above 5 ºC. In spring and summer, the plant can receive regular fertilizer, and regular pruning helps it maintain its shape.

Mate leaves contain caffeine and antioxidants, contributing not only to an energy boost but also serving as a healthy addition to your daily routine.

Making Mate tea is a straightforward process. Harvest a handful of fresh leaves and let them dry in the sun. Once dried, crumble the leaves and use a tea filter to create an invigorating infusion. Pour hot water over the leaves and let them steep for the perfect cup of Mate tea.

Mate tea boasts a unique and characteristic flavor often described as earthy, spicy, and slightly bitter. The taste is influenced by various factors, including the plant's growth conditions, harvest time, and tea preparation method.

The earthy tones arise from the natural properties of Mate leaves. The addition of hot water reveals the deep, spicy flavor, while the slight bitterness adds pleasant complexity to the beverage. Some people compare the taste of Mate to that of green tea but with a more pronounced character.