Rooibos and green tea often end up side by side on the shelf, and they could not be more different. Here is a simple way to choose.
Green tea comes from the Camellia sinensis plant and carries a gentle amount of caffeine, about 29 mg per 8 ounce cup according to Mayo Clinic. The exact amount changes with the tea and the steeping time. Rooibos comes from a South African shrub and is naturally caffeine free, so it works any time of day, even before bed.
Green tea tastes fresh, grassy and sometimes a little bitter if it steeps too long. Rooibos is smooth, naturally sweet and earthy, and it rarely turns bitter because it is very low in tannins. Green rooibos, which is unoxidized, is lighter and more herbal. We explain the difference in our guide to Rooibos vs. Green Rooibos.
Green tea likes cooler water, about 175°F, for 2 to 3 minutes. Rooibos is forgiving: use fully boiling water and steep for 7 to 10 minutes. It also makes a very good iced tea. Our brewing guide has the details for every kind of tea.
| Feature | Rooibos | Green tea |
|---|---|---|
| Caffeine | None | About 29 mg per 8 oz cup |
| Flavor | Smooth, sweet, earthy | Fresh, grassy |
| Water | 212°F (boiling) | About 175°F |
| Steep time | 7 to 10 minutes | 2 to 3 minutes |
| Best for | Calm evenings, iced tea | A clear, awake morning |
Pick green tea when you want a clear, awake morning. Pick rooibos when you want something warm and calming, or when you are avoiding caffeine. Many of us keep both and choose by mood.
An organic green tea. For something gentler, try Mermaid's Touch, a blend of green and white tea.
