A woman harvesting fresh Yaupon holly sprigs into a traditional woven basket, honoring the sustainable, ancestral traditions of gathering North America's only native caffeinated plant.

A Note From The Founder:

As the great-granddaughter of Chief David Adam Harris (One Toad), I feel a deep responsibility to carry forward the legacy of my ancestors. During his lifetime, Native people were encouraged—and often forced—to give up their language, ceremonies, traditional foods, and ways of life. Much of the knowledge surrounding yaupon—once an important part of daily life, ceremony, wellness, and community—was nearly erased.

Catawba Yaupon is our way of giving something back to our people. By restoring awareness of North America's only native caffeinated plant, we hope to reconnect future generations with a meaningful part of their history and culture while sharing its story with the world.

This is our quiet act of defiance —a commitment to preserve what others tried to erase, to honor those who came before us, and to ensure that the knowledge, traditions, and spirit of our people continue to live on for generations to come.

— Bobbie Harris

The Catawba Indian Nation has lived along the banks of the Catawba River for more than 6,000 years. Before European contact, the Catawba inhabited much of the Piedmont region of present-day South Carolina, North Carolina, and parts of Virginia, with an estimated population of 15,000–25,000 people. Disease brought by European settlers, particularly smallpox, devastated the Nation, reducing the population to fewer than 100 by the early 1800s.

Despite centuries of hardship, the Catawba people endured by adapting while preserving the heart of their culture. Traditionally a matriarchal society, Catawba women held important leadership roles, serving as the foundation of their families and communities. When the Catawba Nation faced near extinction, it was the skill and determination of Catawba women that helped ensure its survival. Their renowned hand-built pottery became a vital source of income, allowing families toremain on their ancestral homeland when so much had been lost.

The Catawba pottery tradition not only sustained families economically—it helped preserve the Nation itself.

Today, the founders of Catawba Yaupon are following in the footsteps of those remarkable Catawba women. As a Catawba mother-and-daughter-owned business, they are committed to preserving their heritage by helping restore the knowledge, traditions, and cultural significance of yaupon—North America's only native caffeinated plant. Like the pottery makers before them, they are using traditional knowledge to strengthen their community and help ensure that Catawba culture continues to thrive for future generations.

Our Mission

To honor our ancestors by restoring yaupon to its rightful place within Native communities — while sharing the beauty, history, and purpose of this sacred plant with the world.

We are committed to preserving Indigenous traditions, supporting cultural connection, and crafting premium yaupon tea that reflects authenticity, sustainability, and respect for the land. Every blend we create — from plant to package — is made with care rooted in over a century of Catawba heritage.

Frequently asked questions about Catawba Yaupon

Who founded Catawba Yaupon?

Catawba Yaupon was founded by a Catawba mother and daughter — great-granddaughters of David Adam Harris ("Toad"), Chief of the Catawba Nation from 1906 to 1922. They established the company to honor their ancestors and restore yaupon to its rightful place within Native communities.

Is Catawba Yaupon an Indigenous-owned company?

Yes. Catawba Yaupon is 100% Native American–made and owned by members of the Catawba Nation. Every stage of production — from harvest to finished blend — reflects that heritage and commitment.

Why did the founders start a yaupon tea company?

The founders saw an opportunity to restore a plant that was central to Indigenous life for over a thousand years but had nearly disappeared from mainstream awareness. Starting this company was an act of cultural responsibility — to preserve Indigenous traditions, support cultural connection, and share the beauty of yaupon with the world.

What does "Catawba" mean in the company name?

Catawba refers to the Catawba Nation — the Indigenous nation of the founders. The word "yaupon" itself derives from a Catawba-language word for "small tree," making the company name a direct tribute to both the people and the plant's linguistic heritage.

What is the mission of Catawba Yaupon?

To honor their ancestors by restoring yaupon to its rightful place within Native communities, while sharing the beauty, history, and purpose of this sacred plant with the world. The company is committed to preserving Indigenous traditions, supporting cultural connection, and crafting premium yaupon tea that reflects authenticity, sustainability, and respect for the land.

How does buying Catawba Yaupon support Indigenous communities?

Every purchase directly supports a 100% Native American–owned and operated business. The company's work helps sustain Indigenous foodways, create appreciation for Native plant knowledge, and preserve cultural traditions — not as history, but as living practice.