I have had something (slugs?) eat my stevia plant twice now. Both were purchased as 4" plants and were about 6-8" tall with healthy branching. Before I knew it, all I had left was stems with every leaf nibbled to the base. I suppose it must be slugs although I've never seen one on or near either plant. Off I go for another one, my granddaughter would be devastated if I didn't have her 'sweet leaves' in the garden. That and the seed pods of sweet cicely are her favorites.