Dwarf Yaupon Holly Shrub - Natural, Native Caffeinated Tea (Youpon, cassina) - Ilex

There is only one caffeine-producing plant that is native to North America — Yaupon Holly. Related to South America's Yerba Maté, Yaupon's leaves contain .09% caffeine. The plant was traditionally brewed by indigenous people in Texas, but grows wild in mostly coastal areas as far west as Texas, as far east as Florida and as far north as Virginia.

You might grow the Yaupon Holly just for its caffeinated leaves, but this dense, shrubby bush could also make a great landscape plant.

• Average mature height: up to 10-30 feet
• Fertilizer: Nitrogen/Phosphorus/Potassium in a 3/1/6 ratio
• Light: Full to partial sun
• Soil: Grows natively in sandy soil. Drought resistant. Water 2-3 times weekly.
• Zones: 7a-9b

Plant Size
A baby plant, that is 3-8 inches tall, will arrive at your home in a 3-inch-deep pot. Then, raise your new baby to maturity under your caring, green thumb.

Questions or Problems?
We have shipped thousands of plants safely to their destinations; however, please send us a picture of your plant(s) within 48 hours of arrival if you have any questions or problems. We can then assess for our Live Delivery Guarantee.

Dead Leaves?
Many sellers ship elephant ear rhizomes without leaves, but we have found a way to successfully ship with leaves. However, on occasion a leaf is damaged during shipping or some leaves die. No fear! The rhizome is still alive and healthy and will grow new leaves relatively quickly. Just repot and trim off any damaged or dead leaves. 

Dormancy
In the winter, this plant generally loses its leaves and may arrive bare to you. This is totally normal and actually very healthy. Like hibernation, dormancy is an important part of the growing cycle when plants are strengthening their root systems instead of focusing on creating new growth. They are still healthy, viable plants that will begin growing new leaves in spring with more light and warmer temperatures during the day and night.

Fertilizer
The Wellspring Gardens Houseplant & Landscape Fuel is a great general–purpose fertilizer for many different types of plants. Apply this premium, water-soluble blend once a week, using a one-gallon watering can and the amount of fuel specified below:
• Indoor potted plants: 1/4 teaspoon
• Outdoor potted plants: 1/2 teaspoon
• Outdoor landscape plants: 1 teaspoon

Cold Weather Shipping
We don’t advise shipping in freezing temperatures. Please ensure temperature lows in your area aren't under 35℉ when you order. If they are that low, just email us and we will be happy to hold your order. Also, make sure to track your package closely and retrieve it as soon as it arrives. We insulate packages bound for cold destinations. We do not, however, use heat packs.