Description
- Common names:
- Arabica Coffee, Arabian Coffee, Mountain Coffee, Coffee Plant, Planta de Café, Cafeto Arábica
- Botanical name:
- Coffea arabica
- Description:
- A glossy-leaved tropical shrub that produces fragrant white flowers and bright red coffee cherries indoors. Easy-care evergreen with global heritage, perfect for plant enthusiasts.
Features
- Pet & Babies safety:
- Mildly Toxic if Ingested (use caution)
- Rarity:
- Uncommon Find
- Form factor:
- Upright Bush, Glossy Leaves, Flowering, Fruiting
- Air Purifier:
- Good Air Purifier (7/10)
- Origin:
- Ethiopia
- Aesthetic advantages:
- Living Room, Office, Kitchen, Sunroom, Modern, Tropical, Scandinavian, Conversation Starter, Bright Window Display
Care Guide
Care level:
Easy Care+
This resilient plant is forgiving of occasional missed waterings and adapts well to indoor conditions. Its straightforward needs make it ideal for those new to tropical plants.
Light:
Bright / Indirect Light+
Place near an east or west-facing window where it receives bright, filtered light for best growth and flowering. Leaves may scorch in direct afternoon sun, and growth will slow in low light conditions.
Water:
Keep Soil Moist+
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, maintaining consistent moisture without waterlogging. Reduce watering slightly in winter, and ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot.
Humidity:
Prefers High Humidity+
Thrives in humidity levels above 50%, mimicking its native tropical understory habitat. Mist leaves regularly, place on a pebble tray, or use a humidifier to prevent leaf browning.
Temperature:
Prefers Warmth+
Thrives in 18-24°C / 65-75°F with consistent warmth year-round. Protect from cold drafts and temperatures below 15°C / 60°F, which can cause leaf drop and stunted growth.
Hardiness zones:
Zones 10-11+
Hardy outdoors year-round only in USDA Zones 10-11 where frost never occurs. In cooler zones, grow as a container plant and move outdoors to a shaded patio during warm summer months.
Fertilizing:
Feed Monthly+
Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength monthly during the growing season (spring through early fall). Reduce feeding in winter when growth naturally slows.
Repotting:
Repot Every 2-3 Years+
Repot in spring when roots begin growing out of drainage holes or when growth slows despite proper care. Use a well-draining, slightly acidic potting mix to maintain optimal health.
Cleaning:
Wipe Leaves Regularly+
Gently wipe the glossy leaves with a damp cloth every few weeks to remove dust, enhance photosynthesis, and keep the foliage looking vibrant. This also helps you spot any pest issues early.
Propagation:
By Seed+
Propagate from fresh coffee seeds (beans) planted in moist, well-draining soil, keeping warm and humid until germination in 4-8 weeks. Semi-hardwood cuttings can also root but are less reliable than seed propagation.