The wood

Rooibos in firewood terms is the Red Bushwillow (not the tea plant). It’s a dominant bushveld tree and a traditional favourite for ‘coaling’; wood that produces long-lasting coals. The bark is scaly or tessellated (blocky, grid-like), and the heartwood is very dark, dense, and heavy. When you buy Rooibos, you’re buying a classic, no-nonsense wood for steady heat and coals that hold.

The look

Bark & shape

Scaly or tessellated: distinct square or rectangular blocks/scales in a grid-like pattern. Grey to brownish-grey, often lighter than Snuifpeul or Mopane. No thorns.

Standard round or split logs; splits relatively cleanly compared to Mopane.

Heartwood & sapwood

Dark brown to blackish; very dense, fine-grained, and heavy. Dried firewood usually looks dark brown-black.

Yellowish-white, sharp contrast with the dark heart.

Quick ID: No thorns; scaly, blocky bark; very dark heartwood.

The burn

How it performs

Heat

High and steady. Dense wood means sustained heat.

Coals

Excellent. Traditionally used for long-lasting coals.

Smoke

Moderate; matte split face (no oily sheen like Mopane).

Lighting

Moderate; benefits from kindling or a hot start.

Best for

Traditional braais and coaling

Fires where steady heat and long-lasting coals matter

Bushveld-style cooking

Gallery

Get Rooibos

We do not currently sell pure Rooibos as a standalone product. It may appear in blends or seasonal offerings; contact us if you’re interested.

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Rooibos.