Huge open skies, rugged mountains, shimmering rock pools, and the silvery sound of birdsong. This is rooibos country, a vast and wonderous wilderness of elemental beauty some three hours north of Cape Town. Known as the Cederberg, it is the only place on earth where rooibos grows.
South Africa’s Cederberg Mountains are some of the most beautiful in the world (we’re only a little bit biased!). They are home to mystical rock formations, enchanting valleys and an abundance of wildlife – from leopards to the elusive Cape mountain zebra, and of course the beautiful Cape Sugarbird. Have you spotted this lovely bird on our packaging?
The Cederberg region forms part of Cape Floral Kingdom, a World Heritage Site protected for plant biodiversity. An estimated 9,000 species live in this botanical paradise - the majority of them endemic. After good winter rains, the landscape famously emerges in a riot of colour as the spring wildflowers come into bloom.
Many plants covering the magnificent Cederberg are members of the native Fynbos family. From an Old Dutch word meaning ‘fine bush’, the name refers to the range of plant species unique to the mountains of the Cape region. South Africa’s national flower, the King Protea, may be the most famous of the fynbos, but our favourite is less flashy but more delicious. Yes, you guessed it, it’s the wonderful rooibos plant.
Rooibos country is known for long, hot and dry summers, cool and occasionally wet winters and coarse, sandy soils. In this specifically harsh environment alone, the rooibos plant thrives. From its sweet earthy taste to its fascinating array of health promoting properties, rooibos is the unique expression of a very special place.
