Coffea

Coffea is a genus of flowering plants in the family Rubiaceae, cultivated for the seeds that are processed into coffee. The genus is native to tropical Africa and Madagascar and is now grown in many tropical regions around the world.

The most economically important species are Coffea arabica (Arabica coffee) and Coffea canephora (Robusta coffee). Less widely cultivated species include Coffea liberica and Coffea excelsa. Coffea plants are evergreen shrubs or small trees that produce clusters of white, fragrant flowers. The fruit is a cherry-like berry that typically contains two seeds, the coffee beans.

Coffee production has a long history in Africa and the Middle East, with commercial cultivation expanding during the 17th and 18th centuries to Europe, the Caribbean, and the Americas. Arabica generally grows at higher elevations and cooler temperatures, while Robusta is more tolerant of heat and pests and is often grown at lower elevations. Optimal cultivation requires stable temperatures, adequate rainfall, and well-drained soils.

Processing methods include washed (wet) processing and dry (natural) processing, both aimed at removing the fruit pulp and drying the seeds. The harvested beans are roasted to varying degrees to develop aroma and flavor, then ground and brewed to produce coffee.

Coffea is a major global commodity. Brazil, Vietnam, Colombia, and Ethiopia are among leading producers. Cultivation faces challenges from pests and diseases such as the coffee berry borer and coffee leaf rust, as well as broader threats from climate change.