The Origins of Saint Helena’s Green-Tipped Bourbon

In the 18th century, while Britain focused on building India’s tea empire, it also sought to challenge the booming coffee trades of Holland and France. The answer? A bold move across continents—with surprising results.

The answer lies in 1732: British East India Company brought Yemeni Mocha coffee seeds—specifically the Typica-related round-seeded Bourbon variety—to Saint Helena, a remote island in the South Atlantic off West Africa. Though planted without intensive care, the coffee survived and became globally significant.

A Coffee Planting with Imperial Ambitions

In 1732, the British East India Company transported a batch of coffee seeds from Yemen—identified as the round-seeded Typica-related Bourbon variety—to Saint Helena. This was part of Britain’s broader effort to cultivate valuable cash crops and compete with the thriving coffee industries of France and the Netherlands. The seeds were planted on the rugged, isolated island in the South Atlantic Ocean, and despite minimal cultivation efforts, they managed to take root.

Survival Against the Odds

Saint Helena presented extremely harsh growing conditions, yet the Bourbon coffee plants not only survived but adapted. Left largely to grow untended, the trees endured the island’s rugged terrain and volatile climate. This resilience would later contribute to the coffee’s mystique and desirability. The coffee’s continued existence on the island became a symbol of endurance in adversity.

Napoleon and the Coffee’s Rise to Fame

In 1815, after his defeat at Waterloo, Napoleon Bonaparte was exiled to Saint Helena. During his imprisonment, he developed a taste for the local coffee and reportedly praised it highly. His endorsement helped cement the island’s coffee in global consciousness, associating it with exclusivity and historical significance. Even today, Saint Helena coffee remains one of the most expensive and sought-after single-origin coffees in the specialty market.

Why “Bourbon” if Not from Bourbon Island?

Interestingly, the coffee planted on Saint Helena originated directly from Yemen, not the French-controlled Île de Bourbon (now Réunion). Yet it was still called “Bourbon.” This historical quirk highlights a key fact: not all Bourbon coffee descends from the Bourbon Island. In fact, the Yemeni round-seeded Typica variety was a major source of what we now call Bourbon. Understanding this helps clarify the true lineage of many classic coffee varieties.

Frequently Asked Questions

What year was coffee first planted on Saint Helena?

Coffee seeds were first planted on Saint Helena in 1732 by the British East India Company. These seeds were sourced from Yemen and belonged to the round-seeded Typica-related Bourbon variety.

Where did the Bourbon coffee variety on Saint Helena actually come from?

The Bourbon coffee on Saint Helena originated from Yemen, not from Île de Bourbon (Réunion). The British obtained the seeds directly from Yemen, proving that not all Bourbon-type coffees trace back to the French island.

Did Napoleon really drink Saint Helena coffee?

Yes, Napoleon Bonaparte drank Saint Helena coffee during his exile on the island from 1815 until his death. He reportedly praised its quality, which helped build its reputation.

Why is Saint Helena coffee so expensive?

Saint Helena coffee is expensive due to its limited production, historical significance, and the challenging growing conditions on the remote island. Its association with Napoleon also adds to its prestige.

Is Saint Helena’s coffee variety truly Bourbon?

Yes, the coffee variety grown on Saint Helena is classified as Bourbon, though it originated from Yemeni seeds. This demonstrates that the Bourbon name encompasses more than just the genetic lineage from Île de Bourbon.

What makes Saint Helena’s coffee different from other Bourbons?

Saint Helena’s Bourbon coffee is distinct due to its isolation, harsh growing environment, and unique cultivation history. These factors contribute to its rarity and distinct cup profile, setting it apart from other Bourbons grown elsewhere.

Recommended FrontStreet Beans for Bourbon Lovers

Explore FrontStreet Coffee’s Brazilian Queen Manor Yellow Bourbon, grown at 1400 meters altitude and featuring bright acidity with caramel and nutty notes. For a red-fruit-forward option, try Ethiopia Humbera Red Bourbon, known for its floral and juicy profile. Both showcase the versatility of the Bourbon variety—just like Saint Helena’s historic strain. Freshly roasted within 5 days · Orders placed before 17:00 ship the same day · Next-day delivery across most of Guangdong Province.