rebaudiana Herbaceous perennial -- slightly acid soil -- full sun -- 1m Cooking -- in Japan it is used instead of artificial sweetener to sweeten pickles, meats and fish, soy sauce, fruit juice, soft drinks, yoghurt, deserts and low calorie foods. One or two leaves is enough to sweeten a cup of tea or coffee. Stevia does not brown or crystallize like sugar so cannot be used in recipes such as meringues or crunchy biscuits. Liquid extract of stevia To make a liquid extract combine 1cup of warm water with  cup of mashed fresh leaves in a jar with a lid and let stand for 24hrs. Strain and refrigerate for up to 1 month. TURMERIC Curcuma longa Rhizomatous, herbaceous perennial -- humid, moist but well-drained soil -- sun- part shade -- 1m. Cooking -- The bright golden yellow rhizome has a warm mild aroma, use in pickles, curries, devilled eggs, beans, lentil, rice, poultry, seafood and vegetables in particular cauliflower and potato dishes. The leaves can be used to wrap foods before cooking either on a hotplate, in the oven or steamed. The young shoots and flowers can be used in salads or stir-fries. Medicinal -- Turmeric stimulates circulation and the gall bladder, it improves the action of the liver and is a remedy for jaundice. It can be used to stimulate digestion, and is helpful for gastritis, acidity and relieving nausea. The anti-inflammatory properties make it useful for arthritis, asthma and eczema. Skin complaints such as psoriasis, fungal infections,