Best Hibiscus Tea to Buy in 2025: Best Tasting, Organic, and Rich Tea Blends

5 glass of hibiscus teas in a silver tray

Overview of hibiscus tea and its history

Top 7 hibiscus teas of 2025 ranked for flavor, value, and quality

Brewing tips for smooth and bright hibiscus tea

Health benefits supported by hibiscus


Introduction

Hibiscus tea is an absolute revelation - a vibrant drink that's as refreshing as it is delicious. Whether enjoyed hot or over ice, pure and simple or blended with spices and fruits, this guide serves as your one-stop shop for the best hibiscus teas of 2025. We have scoured the market and hand-picked the top seven based on a whole bunch of factors - including taste, health benefits, quality, and customer feedback.

Loads of people love hibiscus tea for its deep red color, tangy taste, and the fact it's full of antioxidants. Our focus is on organic hibiscus teas that are sourced sustainably, and premium blends that really let the natural goodness of the hibiscus plant shine through. When it comes to organic hibiscus options - these are the ones that really stand out - because they're grown using methods that are good for the planet.

Whether you seek a drink that's going to do your heart good, a caffeine-free alternative, or simply a delicious beverage - every one of these hibiscus teas has something special to offer - whether you are a seasoned tea drinker or just starting out.

What is Hibiscus Tea

Hibiscus tea is the real deal - completely caffeine-free, and made from the dried petals of the hibiscus flower (Hibiscus sabdariffa). This is the species that's most commonly used for hibiscus tea - and it's the one that gives it that brilliant ruby-red color and a tart, slightly sweet taste that's just as good hot or over ice.

The good news is that it's really low in calories, and it can be enjoyed hot or cold - and the even better news is that it can be blended with all sorts of other ingredients - like cinnamon, ginger, lemon or even rose petals - to create a drink tailored just to your taste.

High-quality hibiscus tea makers know that the key to unlocking its full flavor and aroma is to use whole flowers or big chunks of flower, rather than finely chopped bits - that way you get the best out of every cup.

History & Traditions of Hibiscus Tea

Hibiscus tea has a rich history - and it all started with the ancient Egyptians - who prized it not just for its medicinal properties, but also for its beautiful color. They called it “karkade” and it was a drink that only the pharaohs and nobility were allowed to indulge in. But as time went on, it spread right across the Caribbean, Africa, and Asia where it evolved into the delicious healthy drink we know and love today.

For centuries people have turned to hibiscus tea for all sorts of reasons - from supporting heart health and aiding digestion to keeping cool in the tropics. Today, many still use it for both its taste and its health benefits, a perfect blend of tradition and modern-day tea drinking habits.

In many tropical climates, hibiscus tea has long been valued for its refreshing qualities, especially as a cooling beverage during hot weather. This enduring blend of ancient tradition and modern wellness makes hibiscus tea a timeless favorite among tea lovers everywhere.

Top 7 Best Hibiscus Teas in 2025

1) Gardenika — Cinnamon Hibiscus

Brand Overview: Gardenika sources their USDA Organic and Kosher-certified teas from India, using sustainable methods to bring some of the cleanest herbal blends on the market. The brand is deeply rooted in the idea of wholesome, minimally processed tea that supports wellness and balance.

Flavor & Experience: Cinnamon Hibiscus is the perfect cup to grab on a chilly morning. The flavors are alive and kicking - a lively, tart tea with warming notes of cinnamon and hints of orange and lemongrass that transport you to a sunny field on a warm summer day. Each sip balances bright, fruity character and spicy undertones that keep you coming back for more.

Brewing & Serving Notes: Simply add a teaspoon of Cinnamon Hibiscus to a cup and let the vibrant infusion do the rest. As the tea unfolds, it offers a balance of citrus and cinnamon notes with just a hint of sweetness. The texture is rich and smooth, and the finish is warm and comforting with a lingering floral brightness that leaves you wanting more.

2) Harney and Sons — Hibiscus

Brand Overview: Harney and Sons has been family-owned and operated since 1983, is one of those rare American tea companies that have managed to balance tradition with modern eco-friendly practices and still come out on top. At the heart of it all is dedication to fresh and flavorful teas, wrapped up in compostable paper sachets to keep everything ship-shape.

Flavor & Experience: It is tangy, citrus-forward flavor with a delicate floral sweetness perfect for any time of day. The deep ruby color is a real eye-catcher, and the aroma feels refreshing and brisk. Each sip is a palate cleanser, leaving a crisp and invigorated feeling ready to tackle whatever the day throws.

Brewing & Serving Notes: Drop a teabag of Hibiscus into a cup and watch the brilliant ruby-red color and citrusy aroma unfold. As the tea evolves, it delivers a tart, tangy taste that gradually settles into a sweet floral finish. The texture is just right - light yet satisfying, with a refreshing and lively finish.

3) Plum Deluxe — Strawberry Immunity Herbal Tea (Berries – Echinacea)

Brand Overview: Plum Deluxe - Portland's own handcrafted loose-leaf tea wizards, founded in 2008, blend quality ingredients with mindful enjoyment to create the perfect cup whenever a little pick-me-up is needed.

Flavor & Experience: A beautiful blend of tart hibiscus and sweet berries alongside woodsy floral notes that make it stand out. With the extra depth and complexity of elderberry and echinacea, this tea truly has it all. The texture is smooth and comforting, and the aroma is fruity and uplifting.

Brewing & Serving Notes: Put a teaspoon of Strawberry Immunity into a cup and let the deep pink infusion work its magic. As the tea opens, it delivers a tangy, sweet taste with layered floral undertones - a real layered experience that awakens the senses. The texture offers a comforting and refreshing sensation with every sip.

4) August Uncommon Tea — August Mojave: Smoky Hibiscus Cherry Tea

Brand Overview: August Uncommon Tea - California's own tea revolutionaries, based in the heart of the Golden State, focus on bold, imaginative blends that put flavor first. Their artisanal approach raises the bar, and they provide expert brewing guidance to help get the most out of every cup.

Flavor & Experience: This tea is bold, fruity blend of black cherry, hibiscus, pineapple, and banana that's just begging to be tried. The smoky undertones add an extra layer of depth and interest, a one-of-a-kind tea experience.

Brewing & Serving Notes: Add a teaspoon of August Mojave and watch the bright red-orange infusion unfold. It delivers a tart, fruity taste that gradually reveals subtle smokiness, a layered experience that must be tried. The texture is lively and smooth, with an exotic cup that leaves you wanting more.

5) Tea with Tae — Hibiscus Rose

Brand Overview: Tea with Tae specializes in floral-infused black teas designed to promote relaxation and wellness. Their packaging is right on trend, with super handy little tea tubes that fit in your pocket and pyramid-style sachets that make brewing as easy as can be.

Flavor & Experience: Hibiscus Rose combines a tangy kick of hibiscus with the subtlest floral notes from rosehips and cornflower petals. Sweet and tart, the hibiscus balances delicate floral layers for a smooth and elegant mouthfeel. The aroma is soft and fragrant, and the flavor is lightly sweet, refreshing, and calming.

Brewing & Serving Notes: Drop a tea sachet of Hibiscus Rose into a cup and enjoy a vivid red cup with a fragrant floral aroma quickly. It starts sweet and tart with hibiscus and gradually reveals subtle rose and floral notes. The texture is smooth and gentle, adding to the calming and refined experience with each sip.

6) Nepal Tea Collective — Hibiscus

Brand Overview: Nepal Tea Collective is a U.S.-based Public Benefit Corporation founded by immigrants dedicated to transparency and empowering farmers. They specialize in getting high-quality tea from Nepal to the west, and its unique flavours are down to the region's super-high altitude and weird and wonderful growing conditions.

Flavor & Experience: The pure Hibiscus tea from Nepal Tea Collective is bold, tangy flavor with pronounced floral undertones. The aroma is fresh and lively, and the texture is crisp yet smooth, delivering a robust herbal experience. The deep crimson color and natural tartness make it perfect for hot or iced drinking.

Brewing & Serving Notes: Brew a teaspoon of Hibiscus in a cup and watch it release bright, tangy aromas. It starts with a sharp, lively tartness, then floral undertones emerge. The texture is crisp and smooth with a refreshing, invigorating finish.

7) Danfe — Hibiscus Green Tea

Brand Overview: Danfe Tea highlights high-altitude, loose-leaf teas from the Himalayan mountains of Nepal. They commit to fair sourcing and aim to put Nepal on the global tea map by showcasing unique characteristics of mountain-grown teas.

Flavor & Experience: Hibiscus Green Tea pairs tangy hibiscus with earthy, vegetal green tea for a balanced and nuanced flavor. Floral and fruity aromas mix with subtle grassy undertones for a smooth, lightly brisk mouthfeel.

Brewing & Serving Notes: Place a teaspoon of Hibiscus Green Tea in a cup and watch it release pinkish-red color and green tea undertones with floral aromas. It starts with a tangy hibiscus kick that blends into subtle vegetal depth. The texture is smooth and lively with a gentle, refreshing finish.

Tips for Brewing Hibiscus Tea

A teapot pouring hibiscus tea in a teacup

Brewing hibiscus tea is easy, but a few tips can make each cup better:

  • Use the right water temperature: Hot water 190–212°F brings out the color and flavor without bitterness.
  • Steeping time matters: 3–5 minutes for loose-leaf or tea bags for tart and floral notes. Longer steeping gets more intense but can be very tart.
  • Add sweetness: Honey, agave, or a touch of sugar if preferred for a sweeter cup, especially for tart blends.
  • Try iced tea: Brew stronger and chill over ice for a refreshing summer drink. Hibiscus keeps its red color when served cold.
  • Make cold brew hibiscus tea: Steep hibiscus flowers or tea bags in cold water in the fridge for 6–12 hours. The cold brew method produces a smoother, less tart flavor and is naturally refreshing, perfect for hot days.
  • Combine flavors: Hibiscus pairs well with spices (cinnamon, ginger), citrus, berries, or green/white tea for a custom cup.
  • Cup size: 1–2 teaspoons of loose leaf per 6–8 oz of water, adjust to taste for a lighter or bolder brew.
  • Great value options: Whether loose leaf or tea bags, choose high quality products for best taste and benefits.
  • Experiment with infusions: Try hibiscus with other herbs or fruits to create unique herbal infusions and discover new flavors.

Health Benefits of Hibiscus Tea

Hibiscus tea is renowned for its amazing benefits, making it a popular choice for those seeking natural wellness support. Since hibiscus tea has no caffeine and is rich in antioxidants, it fits well into a balanced diet.

Its antioxidant content helps combat oxidative stress and inflammation linked to many chronic diseases. Hibiscus tea also contains polyphenols which contribute to antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Natural antioxidants and polyphenols in hibiscus support overall wellness and healthy living.

In addition to heart health, research shows hibiscus tea may help lower cholesterol levels and contribute to overall heart function. Studies also show hibiscus tea may help lower blood pressure as part of its heart benefits. Drinking hibiscus tea as a herbal tea fits well into a healthy lifestyle.

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

FAQ

What is the best brand of hibiscus tea?

Top brands are Gardenika, Harney and Sons, and Nepal Tea Collective. Choose the best brand based on preference for loose-leaf, teabag, or flavor blends.

Which is better for hibiscus, loose leaf or tea bags?

Loose leaf hibiscus tea generally provides richer flavor, brighter color, and fuller aroma as larger petals retain more essential oils and antioxidants. Teabags are convenient and quick brewing but may give a slightly flatter taste.

Does hibiscus tea have caffeine?

Pure hibiscus tea has no caffeine, so it is suitable to drink all day including evenings.

What does hibiscus tea taste like?

Tart, tangy, and slightly fruity with floral notes. Citrus, ginger, or sweeteners can be added to enhance the flavor.

Final Notes

Hibiscus tea in 2025 offers something for every tea lover—from bright and tart solo infusions to fruity and spiced blends. Drinking hibiscus tea, especially the best hibiscus tea, provides flavor and benefits with natural antioxidants that support overall wellness.

As a versatile food-friendly beverage, hibiscus tea pairs wonderfully with a variety of meals, making it a first order choice for those seeking both taste and health in their daily drink.

Explore Taste of Tea for the best tea collection to find favorite brands, discover new flavor combinations, and enjoy refreshing hot or iced cups every day. For questions or recommendations, our tea experts stand ready to help.

Behind the Cup

Man drinking cup of tea

Patrick R.

Patrick is a tea enthusiast who enjoys writing about tea and exploring its rich history, culture, and flavors. He contributes to Taste of Tea by sharing his thoughts, discoveries, and personal insights into the world of tea.

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