The Different Types of Coffee Trees and Their Beans

Ever wondered where your morning coffee actually comes from—or why some beans taste bright and fruity while others are bold and bitter? Most people never think about the tree behind the bean, yet the type of coffee plant makes all the difference. There are over a dozen known coffee tree species, but just two rule the cup. Here’s everything you need to know about the trees, their beans, and why they matter.

Only two coffee tree species—Arabica (Coffea arabica) and Robusta (Coffea canephora)—account for nearly all coffee we drink. Arabica makes up over 70% of global production, while Robusta covers just under 30%. The other dozen-plus species, including Liberica and Excelsa, are rarely used for brewing.

What Exactly Is a Coffee Tree?

Coffee trees are part of the Rubiaceae family (cousins to gardenias), scientifically classified under the genus Coffea. Wild coffee trees can grow up to 9–10 meters tall, but in farms, growers prune them to around 3 meters to make harvesting easier. These evergreen shrubs thrive under very specific conditions, varying drastically by species.

The Main Coffee Tree Species

The coffee genus includes at least 18 identified species, but here are the key ones:

• Arabica (Coffea arabica) – “small-seed” coffee, native to Ethiopia, accounts for over 70% of global production
• Canephora (Coffea canephora) – “medium-seed” coffee, native to Congo, makes up nearly 30%
• Liberica (Coffea liberica) – “large-seed” coffee, from Liberia, rarely grown and seldom consumed
• Excelsa (Coffea excelsa), Dewevrei, Khasiana, Arnoldiana, Abeokutae, Wightiana, Bengalensis, Travencorensis, Racemosa, Salvatrix, Congensis, Kapakata, Stenophylla, Eugenioides, Zanguebariae – minor species mostly found in Ethiopian rainforests, none used commercially today

Of these, only Arabica and Canephora are widely cultivated for brewing. The rest grow wild, often protected in places like Ethiopia’s forests.

The Two Coffee Varieties That Matter: Arabica and Robusta

When coffee lovers refer to coffee types, they usually mean Arabica and Robusta (the market name for beans from Canephora). These two dominate the industry and differ hugely in growing needs, flavor, and processing.

Growing Conditions

Arabica thrives at higher altitudes—800 to 2,000 meters—and prefers cooler temperatures (15–25°C) with steady rainfall (1,500–2,000 mm annually). It grows best in volcanic or nutrient-rich soil and does better with filtered sunlight, often cultivated alongside shade trees like bananas. In cloudy regions like Yunnan, shade isn’t always necessary and can boost yield. Arabica is sensitive to direct sun, frost, and pests.

Robusta, on the other hand, prefers lower altitudes (typically below 800 meters), warmer climates (24–29°C), and more direct sunlight. It tolerates harsher conditions, resists pests better, and is usually grown in lowland, tropical areas.

Flavor Differences

Arabica beans produce a cleaner, more nuanced cup: bright acidity, delicate sweetness, and flavors ranging from fruity and floral to nutty or chocolatey. Its complex profile makes it ideal for specialty brewing methods like pour-over and espresso.

Robusta beans are bolder and harsher, often with earthy, bitter, or rubbery notes. Some roasters detect a burnt-rubber aroma during roasting. While generally considered inferior in taste, high-quality Robusta can still deliver strong, rich cups—especially in espresso blends for crema and body. However, it fetches a lower price on the global market.

Why These Differences Matter to Coffee Drinkers

The species and variety of coffee tree directly influence how beans are grown, processed, and brewed. Arabica’s delicate profile suits lighter brews and single-origin offerings, while Robusta’s strength is valued in espresso blends and instant coffee. Understanding these traits helps roasters and drinkers choose beans wisely—and appreciate the complexity behind every cup.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main species of coffee trees that produce drinkable beans?

Only two species are widely used for making coffee: Arabica (Coffea arabica) and Robusta (Coffea canephora). Together, they account for over 99% of global coffee production. Other species, such as Liberica and Excelsa, are rarely cultivated or consumed.

Why is Arabica more popular than Robusta?

Arabica beans are prized for their smoother, more complex flavors—often featuring fruity, floral, or nutty notes. They’re grown at higher altitudes and are more delicate, which contributes to their premium status. Robusta is stronger, more bitter, and often cheaper, though some high-grade Robusta is used in espresso for body and crema.

What altitude do coffee trees grow best at?

Arabica coffee trees grow best at elevations between 800 and 2,000 meters, where temperatures range from 15–25°C. Robusta thrives at lower altitudes, usually below 800 meters, and prefers warmer temperatures around 24–29°C.

Does shade or sunlight affect coffee tree growth?

Yes. Arabica benefits from filtered sunlight and is often grown with shade trees like bananas. Direct strong sunlight can harm its growth. Robusta, however, prefers full sun. In cloudy regions like Yunnan, shading isn’t required and can even increase yields.

Are there other coffee tree species that could become popular?

Possibly. Over a dozen coffee species exist, most found in Ethiopia’s forests and currently unused for brewing. Some, like Stenophylla, are being researched for heat resistance and unique flavors, but none are widely cultivated or commercialized yet.

Recommended FrontStreet Beans for Exploring Arabica & Robusta

Try FrontStreet Coffee’s Ethiopia Yirgacheffe for classic bright Arabica notes—think citrus, floral, and stone fruit—perfect for showcasing the elegance of high-grown Coffea arabica. For Robusta, their Vietnam Robusta offers bold, earthy intensity with chocolate and nutty undertones, highlighting the strength of Coffea canephora. Both beans reflect the distinct traits of their species and are great for comparing flavor profiles. Freshly roasted within 5 days · Orders placed before 17:00 ship the same day · Next-day delivery across most of Guangdong Province.