Aspalathus

plant genus

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Last updated

June 18, 2026

Quick Summary

Aspalathus is a genus of shrubs belonging to the Fabaceae family, native to South Africa. These plants are characterized by heathlike, often tufted leaves and yellow or occasionally purple flowers.12

One notable species within this genus is Aspalathus linearis, commonly known as rooibos or redbush tea. Rooibos is a caffeine-free herbal tea that is considered the national drink of South Africa. Historically, the term "aspalathus" also referred to a biblical shrub believed to be from the Alhagi or Convolvulus genus, which yielded a fragrant oil.12

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fynbos
…diverse plant genera are Erica, Aspalathus, and Senecio, shrubs in the heather, bean, and daisy families, respectively. Other richly represented families include the sedges, irises, grasses, lilies, and orchids, all of which consist of small herbaceous plants that grow
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…diverse plant genera are Erica, Aspalathus, and Senecio, shrubs in the heather, bean, and daisy families, respectively. Other richly represented families include the sedges, irises, grasses, lilies, and orchids, all of which consist of small herbaceous plants that grow
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scrubland
Biota
…diverse plant genera are Erica, Aspalathus, and Senecio, shrubs respectively in the heather, bean, and daisy families. Other richly represented families include the sedges, irises, grasses, lilies, and orchids, all of which consist of small, herbaceous plants that grow beneath the shrub canopy. The most colourful and conspicuous shrubs are…
Read More
…diverse plant genera are Erica, Aspalathus, and Senecio, shrubs respectively in the heather, bean, and daisy families. Other richly represented families include the sedges, irises, grasses, lilies, and orchids, all of which consist of small, herbaceous plants that grow beneath the shrub canopy. The most colourful and conspicuous shrubs are…
Read More