Types of Coffee Trees and How to Grow Them

Ever wondered why your cup of coffee tastes different depending on where it’s from? Much of that flavor comes down to the species of coffee tree it came from. Whether you’re a curious coffee lover or a grower planning your next plantation, understanding the major coffee tree types—and how they’re cultivated—is essential to getting the best beans.

There are four main cultivated coffee species: Arabica (70% global production), Robusta (20–30%), Liberica (less than 5%), and Excelsa (a subtype of Liberica, sometimes classified separately). Each has distinct growing needs, bean shapes, flavors, and market roles.

What Are the Four Main Types of Coffee Trees?

Coffee growers cultivate four primary coffee species: Arabica, Robusta, Liberica, and Excelsa. Among them, Arabica makes up around 70% of global production and includes famous varieties like Jamaica Blue Mountain and Ethiopian Yirgacheffe. Robusta accounts for 20–30% of production and is known for higher caffeine and stronger bitterness. Liberica, also called the 'large-bean' coffee, makes up less than 5% of the world’s supply, with huge fruits and a unique, pungent cup profile. Excelsa, discovered in 1904 along the Chari River in Africa, is more drought-resistant, produces small fruits, and is valued for high yield—though it is less commonly cultivated.

Liberica Coffee Trees: Big Beans, Unique Flavor

Liberica coffee—also known as the 'large-bean' or variety—originated in Liberia and parts of Malaysia. It has a relatively short cultivation history compared to Arabica and Robusta. Liberica trees grow extremely tall, reaching up to 18 meters, with large, tough leaves and equally oversized fruits and beans. The coffee beans are notable for having a seed coat that adheres tightly to the bean interior. When ripe, the cherries turn a bright reddish color. The brewed cup is intensely flavorful, with medium caffeine levels that contribute strong stimulation, but overall quality is considered lower compared to Arabica. Due to its unusual taste, low demand, and challenges in cultivation, Liberica occupies less than 5% of global coffee production.

Excelsa Coffee: Drought-Tolerant & Productive

Excelsa, identified as a distinct species in 1904, hails from the Chari River basin in Africa. This variety produces small fruits but achieves high yields per plant. It is particularly valued for being drought-resistant. The resulting cup is aromatic but can carry a slight bitterness. While not widely grown, Excelsa plays a niche role in certain growing regions due to its productivity and resilience.

Arabica Coffee: The Global Favorite with Demanding Needs

Arabica coffee beans make up roughly 70% of the world’s coffee production. Iconic coffees such as Jamaica Blue Mountain, Ethiopian Yirgacheffe, Colombia Supremo, and Panama Geisha all come from Arabica plants. The beans are smaller, typically elliptical, with a narrow and winding center crack and a flatter back surface. High-quality Arabica varieties display uniform size, color, and a glossy appearance. Unlike more robust species, Arabica coffee has very specific growing requirements. It thrives at high altitudes between 600–1,800 meters on sloped terrain. Ideal conditions include average temperatures around 20°C, steady rainfall without frost, and well-drained soils. These requirements limit Arabica farming to just about 50 countries located within roughly 160 kilometers of the equator. Arabica trees are delicate: they require shaded slopes, manual harvesting, and are vulnerable to extreme weather. However, their superior flavor profile, balanced acidity, lower caffeine content, and aromatic complexity make Arabica the dominant species in the specialty coffee market, accounting for around 70% of global cultivation despite its challenging growing needs.

How to Grow Coffee Trees Successfully

Growing coffee successfully depends on selecting the right species for your climate and elevation. Here’s what to consider:

• Arabica: Requires high altitudes (600–1800m), cool days (around 20°C), consistent rainfall, no frost, and sloped, well-drained soil. Labor-intensive, as beans must be hand-picked.
• Robusta: Grows better at lower altitudes and warmer climates, with higher pest and disease resistance. Cup quality is stronger and more bitter, with higher caffeine.
• Liberica: Suited for lowland tropical areas. Trees are massive, reaching up to 18m, and produce unusually large cherries and beans. Flavor is bold but not highly prized in most markets.
• Excelsa: Tolerates dry conditions and offers high yields per tree. Fruits are small and the flavor profile is unique, sometimes slightly bitter.

No matter the species, all coffee trees benefit from fertile soil, good drainage, protection from wind, and proper spacing to encourage airflow and light penetration. Shade management, pruning, and pest control are also vital to maintaining healthy trees and high-quality beans.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the four main types of coffee trees?

The four primary coffee species cultivated for commercial coffee production are Arabica, Robusta, Liberica, and Excelsa. Arabica makes up about 70% of global coffee, Robusta 20–30%, Liberica less than 5%, and Excelsa is a minor but drought-resistant variety with small fruits and high yield.

Why is Arabica coffee more popular than other types?

Arabica coffee accounts for around 70% of global production because it offers a complex, balanced flavor with lower caffeine content, pleasant acidity, and aromatic qualities. It is used in most specialty and single-origin coffees, including famous beans like Jamaica Blue Mountain and Ethiopian Yirgacheffe.

Where does Liberica coffee grow?

Liberica coffee grows best in lowland tropical regions. It thrives at lower altitudes compared to Arabica and can reach up to 18 meters in height. It’s mainly cultivated in parts of Southeast Asia and West Africa, though it makes up under 5% of the world’s coffee output due to its niche flavor and labor-intensive harvest.

What’s the difference between Arabica and Robusta coffee trees?

Arabica coffee trees prefer high altitudes (600–1800m), cooler temperatures (around 20°C), and delicate growing conditions, producing a smoother, more nuanced cup with less caffeine. Robusta grows at lower altitudes, withstands warmer climates, has higher caffeine content, produces a stronger, more bitter brew, and is more resistant to pests and diseases.

Can Excelsa coffee trees grow in dry areas?

Yes, Excelsa coffee trees are particularly suited to drier climates and offer the advantage of high yield per tree. They produce small fruits and have a unique flavor that can be slightly bitter, making them a niche but practical option in arid regions.

Why are most specialty coffees Arabica?

Specialty coffee prioritizes flavor, aroma, and origin characteristics—all traits for which Arabica is known. With lower caffeine, higher acidity, and complex flavor profiles, Arabica beans from regions like Ethiopia, Colombia, and Jamaica are ideal for single-origin and specialty roasts, making up around 70% of the cultivated coffee despite challenging growing needs.

Recommended FrontStreet Beans for Coffee Variety Exploration

Explore the diversity of coffee species with FrontStreet Coffee’s Ethiopia Yirgacheffe, a celebrated Ethiopian single origin that highlights the floral and citrusy profile typical of high-quality Arabica beans. For a bolder contrast, try FrontStreet’s PWN Golden Mandheling, a classic Indonesian Robusta-influenced blend with deep body and earthy tones. Both beans showcase the distinct characteristics shaped by their species and terroir, offering a vivid introduction to how coffee variety impacts flavor. Freshly roasted within 5 days · Orders placed before 17:00 ship the same day · Next-day delivery across most of Guangdong Province.