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Rubiaceae BUSH BOTH Placement Primary: Food Ornamental

Coffee Plant

Coffea arabica

Identified By Marcs

The coffee plant is an evergreen shrub or small tree belonging to the Rubiaceae family, native to tropical regions of Africa and Asia. It is globally celebrated as the primary agricultural source of coffee beans, which are roasted and brewed to create one of the world's most popular beverages. Beyond its commercial economic value, the coffee plant is frequently grown as an ornamental indoor or outdoor plant, prized for its glossy, dark green leaves, fragrant white star-shaped flowers, and vibrant red or purple fruits known as coffee cherries. Cultivating a coffee plant successfully requires specific environmental conditions, including well-draining acidic soil, high humidity, and filtered or indirect sunlight. When grown indoors, it adds a lush, tropical aesthetic to living spaces while offering plant enthusiasts an engaging horticultural project.

Also known as: Arabian Coffee Coffee Tree

Toxicity & Safety

Is Coffee Plant toxic to pets?

Yes, toxic to pets.

According to the ASPCA, the coffee plant contains caffeine and methylxanthines, which are toxic to dogs, cats, and horses. Ingestion of any part of the plant, especially the beans or leaves, can lead to adverse clinical symptoms including vomiting, diarrhea, panting, excessive thirst, restlessness, abnormal heart rhythms, tremors, and in severe cases, seizures. Pet owners should keep coffee plants well out of reach of curious household pets to ensure their safety and prevent accidental poisoning incidents.

Is Coffee Plant toxic to humans?

No, Coffee Plant is generally safe for humans.

Is Coffee Plant safe during pregnancy?

Generally considered safe during pregnancy.

Growth & Dimensions

Height 150 - 400 cm
Width 100 - 200 cm
Growth Rate Moderate
Care Level Moderate
Lifespan Perennial

Ideal Environment

Temperature 15°C - 24°C
Sunlight Hours 4 - 6 hrs/day
Sun Exposure Partial shade
Soil pH 6 - 6.5
Watering Interval 7 - 10 days
Humidity 50.00% - 80.00%
USDA Zone 9 - 11

Tropical Highlands

Climate: Thrives in warm, frost-free tropical climates with high ambient humidity, consistent rainfall, and protection from harsh, direct midday sun exposure.

Soils: Loam Volcanic ash Rich organic soil
Annual Rainfall: 1200 - 2200 mm

Native Regions

Ethiopia
South Sudan

How to Care for Coffee Plant

How should I handle watering your coffee plant?

Water your coffee plant thoroughly when the top two to three centimeters of soil feel dry to the touch. Ensure that the pot has excellent drainage holes to prevent water from pooling at the bottom, as soggy soil can quickly lead to root rot. During the active growing spring and summer months, you will need to water more frequently, while reducing frequency during the cooler winter dormancy period.

How to Propagate Coffee Plant

How to propagate Coffee Plant by cutting?

Select a healthy, semi-hardwood stem tip measuring approximately 15 to 20 centimeters long from a mature coffee plant during the active growing season. Remove the lower leaves, leaving only a couple of top leaves intact to minimize moisture loss. Dip the cut end into rooting hormone powder to stimulate root growth and insert it into a moist, sterile propagation medium consisting of perlite and peat moss. Cover the container with a clear plastic bag to maintain high humidity levels, place it in bright, indirect light, and keep the soil consistently damp until roots successfully establish within several weeks.

Common Diseases & Pests of Coffee Plant

What is Coffee Leaf Rust and how is it treated?

Fungal
Symptoms:

Yellowish-orange powdery spots appear on the underside of the leaves, eventually turning brown and leading to premature defoliation, which severely weakens the plant and reduces future fruit production significantly.

Treatment:

Apply a copper-based fungicide to the affected foliage following manufacturer instructions, and immediately remove heavily infected leaves from the plant and surrounding soil area to prevent further fungal spore spread.

Prevention:

Ensure adequate air circulation around the plant branches by proper pruning, avoid overhead watering that keeps leaves wet for extended periods, and maintain balanced soil fertility to keep the plant robust.

Properties & Benefits of Coffee Plant

Bears Fruit Aromatic Plant

Uses & Health Benefits

What are the benefits of antioxidant properties in Coffee Plant?

Coffee derived from the plant is exceptionally rich in powerful dietary antioxidants, including chlorogenic acids, which help neutralize harmful free radicals in the human body. Regular and moderate consumption has been associated with reduced oxidative stress, lower inflammation levels, and potential protective effects against chronic metabolic conditions, making it a valuable addition to a balanced daily lifestyle.

Precautions: Excessive intake may lead to insomnia, anxiety, and increased heart rate in sensitive individuals.

Key Nutrients / Compounds

Caffeine rich in 80-100 mg / cup

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