Tea Blog

There’s no such thing as “red tea,” at least not in the strictest sense of the term. However, several beverages have come to be referred to by that name over time.

In China, for example, what is commonly called black tea in the West is often referred to as “red tea,” a name that reflects the reddish color of the brewed liquid.

Some of the most widely recognized “red teas,” however, are not derived from Camellia sinensis, the traditional tea plant. Among these, the most popular is rooibos, a caffeine-free herbal beverage native to a specific region of South Africa.

Rooibos—also known as redbush—is valued for both the reddish hue of its processed leaves and the rich red color of its infusion. It is not the only South African herbal tea with these characteristics, however.

Another notable option is

honeybush herbal tea made from Cyclopia plants native to South Africa
,
which is considered the country’s second most popular “red tea.”

Honeybush, known locally as heuningbos, may derive its name either from its naturally sweet flavor or from the honey-like scent of its flowers.

Compared to rooibos, honeybush tends to produce a lighter-colored infusion and offers a milder, more delicate flavor, making it appealing to those who find rooibos too strong.

Although there are several species of honeybush plants, only a small number are commonly used for beverage production.

Interest in honeybush has increased in recent decades, with production rising significantly and demand continuing to grow as consumers seek alternatives to traditional tea.

For more detailed background, see

this overview of honeybush including its origins, processing, and flavor profile

and

this resource explaining the uses and characteristics of honeybush herbal tea
.

You can also read

this review of a honeybush tea product describing its taste and brewing qualities

for a firsthand perspective.

© Online Stores, Inc., and The English Tea Store Blog. Unauthorized use is prohibited. Excerpts allowed with proper credit.