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

You probably already know that different types of plants produce distinct flavors. Learn about four of the most widely used varieties: Arabica. Robusta. Liberica. and Excelsa.

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

Arabica

Arabica is the most sought-after coffee worldwide accounting for 75% of all global coffee beans produced. Arabica beans are milder and types of coffee beans have a sweeter flavor than Robusta and come in a variety profiles. The taste and aroma components of a cup of coffee can differ significantly based on the growing conditions and processing techniques used to make it.

The word "coffee" originates from the Arabic word that means berry. Coffee beans are actually seeds that develop in bright red berries. It is believed that ancient Ethiopian shepherds realized that their goats became energy-rich after eating these fruit, and the cultivation of coffee soon spread across the world.

Coffee beans can be grown at higher altitudes and are able to thrive when exposed to cool temperatures and lots of rain. This is one of the main reasons why Arabica is considered to be the best-tasting type of coffee.

Many specialty coffee shops and roasters are focused on the ethical source of arabica beans, and focusing on fair wages for farmers and sustainable farming practices. These companies typically blend arabica beans to make unique specialty coffees that can be used in various methods of brewing. Blending gives you control over the aroma, flavor as well as body and acidity of the coffee and is frequently preferred to create a consistent and balanced taste that appeals to a larger market.

Robusta

Robusta beans (Coffea canephora) are the second most commonly used variety of coffee bean that is grown worldwide. They contain more caffeine per bean and are more resistant against diseases and pests. They also have higher levels of chlorogenic acids that are antioxidants that naturally occur. However, these acids can cause oxidation in the process of brewing coffee and could result in unpleasant flavors.

The plant itself is more durable than arabica, and can grow in less favorable climate conditions and at lower elevations. It can withstand warmer temperatures and thrives in direct sun. It produces more hasbean coffee per plant and grows more quickly than arabica. This makes it a economical crop to cultivate.

Although it might appear counterintuitive Robusta beans are frequently combined with arabica to create coffee blends. If you notice names like Uganda or Kenya on the bag of coffee it's likely that there's also some robusta.

The majority of roasters utilize a mix of arabica and coffee beans to lower costs and maintain quality. To ensure the integrity of the flavor, it's important to select a premium bean from a supplier you are confident with. The best method to do this is to buy your beans directly from the farmer.

Liberica

Liberica beans have a shape that is similar to a football, which is why they are different from other types of coffee beans. They are characterized by a smell that is fruity, floral and smoky. They are added to other types of coffee beans to give them a deeper and more robust taste.

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

These qualities make them perfect to grow at home. You can purchase seeds from numerous sources. However, it is ideal to purchase the beans from local producers to ensure the highest quality. The best growing conditions for Liberica coffee plants are fertile deep volcanic soils that have moderately acidic pH, and adequate annual rainfall.

Excelsa is a different type of coffee bean. It was previously classified as a distinct species, but has now been reclassified as a Liberica variant. These coffee beans are oval-shaped and are found on large coffee plants, which can grow to 20 to 30 feet in height at moderate altitudes. Their distinctive taste is tart and sour, which makes them a popular option for house blends. They have a more subtle scent and a lower caffeine content than Arabica or Robusta but they still possess a distinct depth of flavor.

Excelsa

Although they're the fourth most coveted kind of coffee beans, Excelsa beans aren't quite as readily available as Arabica or Robusta. They were actually regarded as a different coffee plant species until 2006, when they were reclassified to be a synonym for Coffea Liberica var. dewevrei. They are grown in Southeast Asia today and account for 7% of the global production of coffee. The coffee beans are shaped in the shape of a teardrop and have a dark, mysterious taste. They're typically used in blends to add extra body and a luscious tart, ripe fruit flavor.

Arabica beans are the most popular, and are well-known for their an apricot-like flavor. They thrive at higher altitudes and enjoy warm, tropical climates. They have a slight acidity. If they are brewed correctly and roast properly, they can have notes like chocolate, nuts or even fruit.

Robusta is the second most sought-after coffee worldwide, and is responsible for around 40% of all coffee consumed in the world. Robusta beans are rounder and smaller, yet contain twice as much caffeine as Arabica. They are also bitterer than the other two varieties and have an earthy and woody taste.

Now that you know the four most popular types of coffee beans now is the time to pick the perfect coffee. If you prefer an elegant and delicate taste pick an arabica, or a blend consisting of robusta and arabica beans.