Rooibos (Aspalathus linearis)

Family: Fabaceae or Leguminosae | Edibility: Edible (3/5)

Aspalathus linearis is a SHRUB growing to 2 m (6ft 7in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 9. It is in flower from July to August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). It can fix Nitrogen. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid and neutral soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil and can tolerate drought.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

tastes similar to oriental tea made from Camellia sinensis. — A tea made from the dried fermented leaves tastes similar to oriental tea made from Camellia sinensis.; It is less astringent, however, due to the lower tannin content.; It is caffeine-free, but has a higher content of fluoride which might help to protect against tooth decay.; Recent research has shown that this tea contains a substance similar to superoxide dismutase, an antioxidant compound that is thought to retard the ageing process.

Habitat & North American Range

Sandy hills and on the sides of mountains. Well-drained, sandy but moisture-retaining, non-acidic soils. (Zone 8)