Product description espinheira santa maytenus ilicifolia is a small shrubby evergreen tree growing to heights of around 5m with leaves and berries that resemble those of the european holly it is native to southern brazil and many other parts of south america espinheira santa is part of a large genus of plants many of which have been used medicinally by indigenous tribes in brazil it is commonly consumed as a leaf tea after meals espinheira santa has a very pleasant taste and can be us