Honeybush tea and rooibos tea are distinct South African herbal infusions. Their regional connection can make them appear similar, but they do not come from the same plant.
Different botanical origins
Rooibos comes from Aspalathus linearis. Honeybush is made using plants in the Cyclopia genus. SANBI describes several Cyclopia species associated with honeybush production. The botanical name therefore separates two drinks that may sit beside each other on a shop shelf.
Honeybush is not simply rooibos with honey
The word honeybush is a plant-related name. It does not automatically mean honey has been added to the tea, just as rooibos does not identify every extra ingredient in a flavoured blend. The product list explains any additions.
Comparing like with like
A comparison of plain products differs from one involving vanilla, fruit or spices. Added ingredients influence the result. The supplier’s preparation instructions and description belong to that particular product, rather than every tea from the same region.
Place and tea culture
The two drinks show how herbal infusions can have a strong connection to place. Caribbean bush tea has another set of plants and traditions. Our Caribbean history article introduces that story. Honeybush and rooibos are discussed here for interest, without suggesting that either is part of our current range.
Background reading: SANBI’s honeybush profile.
More from K&M Herbs
Explore our current tea and gift range and download our free herbal tea and wellness book for more about K&M Herbs.
Related reading: The History of Tea in the Caribbean: From Bush Tea to Today.