From South African farms to space: Rooibos writes a new chapter in the history of African agriculture

Written by Amna Hassan

In a scientific move reflecting the growing presence of the African continent in space research, South Africa is preparing to send seeds of the famous rooibos plant to the International Space Station next October, as part of an experiment aimed at studying the effect of the space environment on plant growth, in an achievement that makes rooibos the second African crop to undergo this experiment after the Nigerian egosi seeds.

A scientific experiment to study the effect of space on plants

The project, dubbed “Rooibos in Space,” has the scientific ambition of understanding how seeds respond to microgravity and cosmic radiation. The seeds will spend several weeks in a laboratory aboard the International Space Station before being returned to South Africa for comparison with similar seeds kept on Earth, with the aim of assessing germination rates, growth, yield, and adaptability to harsh conditions.

Partnership between scientists and students

The project is being implemented by the Rooibos Council of South Africa in collaboration with MaxIQ Space and with the support of the South African National Space Agency. It involves students from seven schools in the Cederbergh region, home to rooibos cultivation, along with farmers and specialized researchers, in an experience that combines scientific research, education and the development of new generations’ skills in the fields of science and space.

A strategic crop that embodies the identity of South Africa

Rooibos is not only important because it is a globally popular herbal drink, but it also represents one of South Africa's most prominent agricultural exports.

During 2025, the country exported more than 10,000 tons to more than 50 markets around the world, and rooibos also obtained protected designation of origin status in the European Union, which enhances its position as an African product of great economic and heritage value.

Africa strengthens its presence in space agriculture research

This mission comes after Nigeria’s success in sending Igosi seeds to the International Space Station in 2025, an indication of the growing involvement of African crops in research related to off-ground agriculture.

Global space agencies are studying plant behavior in space environments with the aim of developing crops that are more resilient to drought and climate change, as well as supporting food production plans during future missions to the Moon and Mars, which gives African initiatives an increasing role in shaping the future of food security on Earth and beyond.