Coffea liberica

Coffea liberica is a species of flowering plant in the family Rubiaceae. It is a coffee plant species, native to western and central Africa from Liberia to Uganda and Angola, and is less popular than the more heavily cultivated species Coffea arabica and Coffea canephora.

Description

Coffea liberica is an evergreen tree that grows up to 9 meters in height, but can reach up to 20 meters. The leaves are shiny, dark green, and oblong-elliptic in shape. The flowers are fragrant, white, and grow in clusters. The fruit, or coffee cherries, are larger than those of Coffea arabica, and contain one or two seeds which are commonly referred to as coffee beans.

Cultivation and Use

Coffea liberica is grown primarily in Malaysia and the Philippines, where it was introduced to replace Coffea arabica trees damaged by coffee rust disease. It is also grown in parts of Africa. The beans of Coffea liberica are used to produce coffee, with a unique flavor profile that includes floral and fruity notes, and a full body.

History

Coffea liberica was first discovered in Liberia, West Africa, hence its name. It was introduced to the Philippines in the late 19th century, and has since become a significant part of the country's coffee production.

See Also

• Coffea arabica
• Coffea canephora
• Coffee production in the Philippines