MDC’s May Public Lecture Explores History of Yaupon Tea

Yaupon trees are native to Central Florida and the leaves of this tree have been used to make tea for many years. Fortunately for modern tea enthusiasts, yaupon tea is a commercially produced product making this historic beverage available to all.

Meet Shelly Steele of Rise Yaupon

Shelly Steele, president and co-founder of Rise Yaupon, will deliver the final Discovery Lecture Series spring presentation called, “History of Yaupon Tea and Rise Yaupon” on Thursday, May 7. The presentation will begin at 6 p.m., at Marine Discovery Center.

Steele’s entrepreneurship journey started in 2020, when she began leading yaupon tea production. Previously, she worked as a financial services consultant for Ernst & Young and as an executive at Charles Schwab. Steele grew up in New Smyrna Beach and is now back in her hometown leading Rise Yaupon, whose production facility is located in Edgewater. 

Yaupon Holly is a caffeinated, Florida-native plant that was once the center of civilization for the Timucua and numerous other indigenous tribes. Worshiped as a gift from the god of purity (Yahola), Steele notes that “yaupon faced a sordid history filled with mistakes, slander and prejudice.” She will discuss that history in her presentation. 

Guests attending the presentation will learn about this ancient tea and the modern resurgence of America's only natural caffeine source with the leader of a local, women-owned company. Guests also will be able to taste yaupon tea at the presentation.

MDC’s Discovery Lecture Series is free, but donations to the center are always appreciated. Pre-registration is requested. Early arrival is encouraged, as seating is limited.

Marine Discovery Center is located off the North Causeway at 520 Barracuda Blvd., in New Smyrna Beach.

For more information about the lecture, contact the Marine Discovery Center at 386-428-4828.