Genus Stevia refers to a group of perennial plants in the sunflower family (Asteraceae) that belong to the genus Stevia. Stevia is native to South America, particularly regions of Paraguay, Brazil, and Argentina. It is a genus that encompasses various species, including Stevia rebaudiana being the most well-known and widely cultivated.
Stevia plants are recognized for their sweet-tasting leaves, which contain naturally occurring sweeteners known as steviol glycosides. These glycosides, most notably stevioside and rebaudioside A, are significantly sweeter than sucrose but contain negligible calories, making Stevia a popular alternative to sugar in many countries worldwide.
The Genus Stevia includes herbaceous plants with small, elliptical leaves arranged oppositely along the stems. They are typically 30-60 cm tall and may have slender, square-shaped stems covered with fine hairs. The flowers of Stevia plants are small, white, and often arranged in panicles or clusters.
Apart from their use as a natural sweetener, Stevia plants have been traditionally employed for medicinal purposes due to their potential antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties. Additionally, some species within the genus Stevia have been utilized for their culinary value, as their leaves can be used in the preparation of teas, beverages, herbal infusions, and as a flavoring agent.
Overall, Genus Stevia refers to a diverse group of plants known for their exceptional sweetness and their various applications in the food, beverage, and medicinal industries.
