Coffee Bean Types: Arabica, Robusta, Liberica, and Excelsa

If you're a lover of coffee, you likely already know that different kinds of beans have distinct flavor profiles. Learn more about four of the most popular varieties: Arabica, Robusta, Liberica and Excelsa.

Excelsa beans are a variety of Liberica that is grown exclusively in Southeast Asia. They have a fruitier, tarter flavor profile and are often used in coffee blends for added depth.

Arabica

Arabica is the most sought-after coffee in the world and accounts for 75% of the global coffee beans produced. Arabica beans are more mild and sweeter than Robusta and come in different flavors. The taste and aroma components of a cup of coffee can differ greatly based on the climatic conditions and processing techniques used to produce it.

The word 'coffee' actually originates from the Arabic word for berry, specialty coffee and coffee beans are actually fruit seeds which grow inside bright red berries. It is believed that ancient Ethiopian shepherds discovered that their goats became energy-rich after eating these fruits, and the cultivation of coffee soon began to spread throughout the world.

Coffee beans can be grown at high altitudes and are capable of thriving in cold temperatures and plenty of rain. This is one of the reasons why Arabica is considered to be the most delicious coffee.

Many specialty coffee shops and roasters focus on the ethical source of arabica beans, with a focus on fair wages for farmers and sustainable farming practices. These companies typically blend arabica beans to create unique specialty coffees that can be used in various brewing methods. Blending allows for control over the aroma, flavor as well as body and acidity of the coffee and is often preferred in order to achieve an even and consistent taste that appeals to a wider market.

Robusta

Robusta beans (Coffea canephora) are the second most common type of coffee bean that is grown worldwide. They have a higher amount of caffeine per bean than Arabica, and are more resistant to pests and disease. They also have higher levels of chlorogenic acids, which are antioxidants found naturally. However, these acids may cause oxidation in the coffee brewing process and may produce undesirable flavors.

The plant is more robust than the arabica, and can be grown in less favorable climates. It can withstand higher temperatures and thrives in direct sunlight. It is faster growing and produces more coffee per plant than arabica, which makes it a cheaper crop to grow.

While it may sound counterintuitive the fact is that arabica and Robusta beans are often blended to create coffee gift set blends. If you notice names like Uganda or Kenya on a coffee bag it's possible that there is also some robusta.

The majority of roasters make use of a mix of arabica and coffee beans to cut costs and preserve quality. To preserve the integrity of the flavor, it's crucial to choose a high-quality bean from a source that you trust. The best way to achieve this is to buy your beans directly from the farmer.

Liberica

Liberica beans are more or less football shaped and are therefore distinct from other coffee bean varieties. They have a distinctive scent that is floral and fruity with subtle smoky undertones. They are added to other coffee bean types to give them a richer, more robust taste.

Liberica coffee beans are grown in West Africa and Malaysia (Borneo) as well as in Southeast Asia. They can grow in low altitudes and can withstand hot, humid climates. They also have a more resistant to diseases than Arabica and Robusta.

These characteristics make them ideal for growing at home. On the internet, you can purchase seeds from a variety of sources. However, coffee it's best to purchase the beans from local producers in order to ensure high-quality. The best conditions for growing Liberica coffee plants include fertile, deep volcanic soils with moderately acidic pH as well as adequate annual rainfall.

Excelsa is a different variety of coffee bean. It was originally classified as a separate species, but has since been reclassified as a Liberica variant. These coffee beans are ovals that are grown on large 20 to 30-foot coffee plants at moderate altitudes. They have a distinctive taste that is both fruity and tart that has made them a popular choice for blends in house. They are also lighter in aroma and caffeine than Arabica and Robusta however they still have a distinct richness of flavor.

Excelsa

Excelsa coffee beans aren't as well-known as Arabica and Robusta, yet they're the fourth most popular. In fact they were considered to be an individual species of coffee plant until 2006 when they were reclassified as a synonym for Coffea liberica var. dewevrei. Currently, they're cultivated primarily in Southeast Asia and account for 7 percent of the world's production of coffee. The coffee beans are shaped in the shape of a teardrop and have a dark, mysterious taste. They are often blended to add extra body and a luscious, tart, ripened fruit taste.

Arabica beans are the most sought-after, and are renowned for having a an apricot-like flavor. They thrive at high altitudes and have warm, tropical climates. They also have a hint of acidity. When properly roasted and brewed, they can have notes of nuts, chocolate, or even fruit.

Robusta is the second most adored coffee worldwide, and accounts for about 40% of all coffee consumed around the world. Robusta beans are rounder and smaller, but they have more caffeine than Arabica. They also taste bitterer than the other two types and have a woody, earthy taste.

After having learned about the four most popular types, it's now time to choose your favorite brew. If you're looking to enjoy a smooth and delicate taste, go for an arabica bean or specialty coffee a blend of arabica and robusta beans.