Coffea arabica

Own a living coffee plant—lush, glossy, and irresistibly unique. The Arabica Coffee Plant elevates interiors with tropical greenery and, in the right bright spot, rewards you with sweetly fragrant blooms and decorative cherries. A premium desk-to-living-room statement plant and an unforgettable gift for coffee lovers.

1. Basic Identification

Common Name: Arabica Coffee Plant
Botanical Name: Coffea arabica
Former Name: Not available
Plant Type: Fruit-bearing houseplant (evergreen shrub)
Plant Code / SKU: PLT-0049
Alternative Names:
قاوه (Arabic)
Arabian Coffee
Mountain Coffee
Java Coffee

2. Taxonomy & Classification

Order: Gentianales
Family: Rubiaceae
Genus: Coffea

3. Origin & Distribution

Native to the southwestern highlands of Ethiopia and parts of Yemen; now widely cultivated across tropical regions of Central and South America, Africa, and Asia.

4. Visual Characteristics

Evergreen shrub with glossy, dark green, opposite leaves 10–15 cm long; produces clusters of star-shaped, fragrant white flowers; followed by round red to purple cherries (~1 cm diameter) containing two seeds (coffee beans).

5. Size & Dimensions

As a houseplant typically 2–6 ft (0.6–1.8 m) tall with a similar spread; in plantations may reach up to 30 ft (10 m); leaf length 10–15 cm; cherry diameter ~1 cm.

6. Light Requirements

Bright, indirect light with some morning or late afternoon direct sun; tolerates partial shade; avoid intense midday sun to prevent leaf scorch.

7. Watering Needs

Keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged; water when the top 2–3 cm of soil feels dry; reduce watering slightly in cooler months.

8. Soil & Potting

Prefers well-draining, slightly acidic soil (pH 6.0–6.5) rich in organic matter; ideal mix includes peat moss, perlite, and compost; repot every 2 years or when root-bound.

9. Temperature & Humidity

Optimal temperature 65–75 °F (18–24 °C); do not allow to drop below 60 °F (15 °C); thrives in high humidity (50 % or above); mist regularly or use a humidifier.

10. Fertilization

Feed with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer (e.g., 20-20-20) every 4–6 weeks during the growing season; or use slow-release organic fertilizer; withhold feeding in winter.

11. Maintenance & Care Level

Moderate care level; prune to maintain shape and encourage branching; remove suckers and spent flowers; routinely check for pests and adjust care as needed.

12. Growth & Propagation

Slow-growing; propagation primarily by fresh seed (germination in 4–6 weeks) or by semi-hardwood cuttings; air layering can also be successful; pruning encourages bushier growth.

13. Common Problems

Overwatering may lead to root rot and yellow leaves; low humidity causes brown leaf tips; pests include scale insects, mealybugs, and aphids; insufficient light can reduce flowering and fruiting.

14. Benefits & Uses

Produces aromatic coffee beans for brewing; serves as an attractive ornamental houseplant with fragrant blossoms; contributes to indoor air purification; ideal educational specimen for coffee enthusiasts.

15. Toxicity & Safety

Caffeine in seeds (beans) is toxic to pets and can cause adverse effects in humans if consumed in large quantities; ingestion of leaves or cherries may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset; suitable caution advised around children and animals.