Rooibos (pronounced  "ROY-bows” or "ROY-boss") is also refered to as Redbush Tea, Bush Tea, or Red Tea. It is the leaves, and sometimes stems, or the Aspalathus Linearis plant native to the Western Cape of South Africa. 

Rooibos can be oxidized (like black tea) or unoxidized (like green tea).  Oxidized Rooibos is  reddish-brown in color and produces an infusion that is flavorful and robust. It is often describes as being nutty, earthy, and sweet. Because Green Rooibos undergoes minimal processing it remains clost to its color at the time of harvest and produces and infusion that is light and slightly sweet. Its body is reminicent of green tea.  

Both Green and Red Rooibos are naturally caffeine free and have low tannin levels, resultiing in smooth infusions. Rooibos can be steeped for long periods of time and will not become bitter.