How Yemeni Mocha Coffee Reached Réunion Island

Ever wondered how the world’s most famous coffee varieties ended up where they are today? One of the most pivotal—yet overlooked—chapters in coffee’s global journey began in 1715, when a small shipment of coffee trees from Yemen’s Port of Mocha arrived on the remote island of Réunion. Only two survived, but those two changed everything.

In 1719, just four years later, Réunion exported its first coffee. That tiny survival rate launched an entire coffee lineage, including the globally influential Bourbon variety. Here’s the full story of how Yemeni Mocha coffee made it to Réunion—and why almost none is grown there today.

The First Coffee Trees in Réunion

In 1715, approximately 40 coffee trees were transported from the Port of Mocha in Yemen to the French colony then known as Bourbon Island (today’s Réunion). Tragically, only two of those trees survived the long and harsh journey across the Indian Ocean. Despite the setback, coffee cultivation took root. By 1719, the island’s first coffee plantations were thriving, and the first commercial coffee exports were underway.

The Government Mandate and Rapid Expansion

From 1719 onward, the colonial government implemented strict agricultural policies to boost production. All residents, regardless of race, were required to plant 100 coffee trees annually. In 1723, this law was amended: enslaved people were mandated to plant 200 Mocha coffee trees per year, under penalty of death for anyone caught damaging the trees. These measures led to rapid expansion of coffee cultivation across the island.

The Origins of Bourbon Coffee

During this period, the island was still a French colony known as Bourbon. The coffee grown there, descended from the original Yemeni Mocha trees, became known as “Bourbon coffee.” This same genetic lineage was also spread to other regions via the island. Over time, the term “Bourbon” became associated with a distinct coffee variety originating from this lineage.

Why Bourbon Coffee Faded on Réunion

Today, despite its historic role, Réunion produces almost no coffee. The Bourbon variety, however, went on to become one of the most widely cultivated and cherished coffee types worldwide. Ironically, while the variety thrived elsewhere, it nearly disappeared from its place of introduction.

What Is Bourbon Coffee?

Bourbon is one of the oldest Arabica coffee varieties, originating from the same genetic group as Typica. It was first cultivated on what was then called Bourbon Island (Réunion). Unlike Typica, Bourbon has broader leaves, denser growth, and yields around 30% more coffee per plant. Its beans are typically rounder and shorter, often exhibiting medium acidity. However, Bourbon is also known for its relatively low disease resistance. The most common variant is Red Bourbon, which produces red fruit; other color mutations include Yellow Bourbon and Pink Bourbon.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many coffee trees were originally brought from Yemen to Réunion?

In 1715, around 40 coffee trees were shipped from Yemen’s Port of Mocha to Réunion. Only two of those trees survived the voyage.

When did Réunion start exporting coffee?

Réunion exported its first coffee in 1719, just four years after the arrival of the Yemeni coffee trees.

What was the coffee variety grown on Bourbon Island called?

The coffee grown on Bourbon Island (now Réunion) was called Bourbon coffee, named after the island’s colonial name. It originated from the original Yemeni Mocha trees.

What happened to coffee production on Réunion?

Although Réunion was historically significant in the development of Bourbon coffee, today it produces almost no coffee. The variety spread globally but nearly disappeared from its original location.

What is special about Bourbon coffee compared to Typica?

Bourbon coffee has broader leaves, denser foliage, and 30% higher yields than Typica. Its beans are usually rounder and often have medium acidity, though it is more susceptible to disease.

Are there different types of Bourbon coffee?

Yes, Bourbon coffee includes several mutations, the most common being Red Bourbon (with red fruit), as well as Yellow Bourbon and Pink Bourbon.

Recommended FrontStreet Coffee for Bourbon Fans

Explore the Bourbon family through these FrontStreet offerings. Brazil Queen Manor Yellow Bourbon is grown at 1400m and features a balanced cup with creamy, peanutty, and chocolatey notes; roasted medium-dark, it’s sweet like cane sugar with an almond finish. For red fruit lovers, Rwanda Red Bourbon offers vibrant acidity with floral and citrus notes, roasted light to preserve its clarity. Both showcase the diversity within the Bourbon genetic lineage. Freshly roasted within 5 days · Orders placed before 17:00 ship the same day · Next-day delivery across most of Guangdong Province.