Yaupon Holly

Yaupon Holly

Yaupon holly is found throughout the southeast, and although this specimen is a dwarf cultivar, the plant can reach between 10 and 20 feet in height. 

The Yaupon is the only plant in North America that contains caffeine.

Native peoples brewed the leaves and buds to prepare a ceremonial “black drink,” and its use in purification rituals earned the name “vomitoria,” although it doesn’t actually make you vomit.

Check out the video from College of the Muscogee Nation’s Courtney Natseway to learn how to make delicious and highly-caffeinated yaupon tea!