Discover Nature at JCU Plants NQ Weeds by common name Stevia ovata

Stevia ovata

(Candyleaf)

FAMILY

Asteraceae

Species

Stevia ovata

Common name

Candyleaf

Flower colour; life form

Flowers white; Shrub to 1 m tall

Distinguishing features

A multistemmed perennial shrub with a large persistent taproot from which it reshoots the next year. Leaves are opposite, margins serrate, and veins are obvious. Flowers white in heads, there are clustered to form a showy display. Numerous seeds are produced, these are dispersed by wind and everything else on which they can hitch a ride. A native of Central and South America, this plant like cooler areas as on the Atherton and Evelyn Tablelands. Flowering in Australia occurs from May to June. An eradication program has been initiated.

Scan of Stevia