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

You probably already know that different varieties can produce different flavors. Find out more about four of the most sought-after varieties: Arabica, Robusta, Liberica, and Excelsa.

Excelsa beans, a type Liberica, are grown exclusively in Southeast Asia. They have a sweeter and more tart flavor profile and are often used in blends of coffee to enhance the flavor.

Arabica

Arabica is the world's most popular coffee, making up 75% of global coffee bean production. Arabica beans are milder and have a sweeter flavor than Robusta and are available in a variety of flavor profiles. The aroma and taste of coffee is affected by the conditions under the conditions it is grown and the methods of processing used.

The word "coffee" actually is derived from the Arabic word for berry, and coffee beans are fruit seeds that grow in bright red berries. It is believed that the ancient Ethiopian shepherds discovered that their goats were energized after eating these fruits. The cultivation of coffee spread quickly around the world.

Coffee beans can grow at high altitudes and thrive in cool temperatures and lots of rain. This is one of the main reasons why Arabica is considered to be the best tasting coffee.

Many specialty coffee shops and roasters insist on the ethical source of their arabica beans and focusing on fair pay for farmers as well as sustainable growing practices. These companies blend arabica beans in order to create unique specialty coffees that are suitable for different brewing methods. Blending is a way to control the aroma, flavor and body of the coffee beans bulk and is frequently preferred to achieve an even and consistent taste that appeals to a larger market.

Robusta

Robusta beans (Coffea canephora) are the second most commonly used variety of coffee bean grown in the world. They have more caffeine per bean and are more resistant against pests and diseases. They also have higher levels of chlorogenic acids which are antioxidants that naturally occur. These acids can cause oxidation during the brewing process of coffee beans types and create undesirable flavors.

The plant is more durable than the arabica and can be grown in less favorable climates. It can tolerate higher temperatures and thrives in direct sunlight. It produces more coffee per plant and grows faster than arabica. This makes it a economically viable crop to cultivate.

While it may seem counterintuitive Robusta beans are typically blended with arabica to make coffee blends. If you see names such as Uganda or Kenya on a coffee bag it's possible there is also some robusta.

While some roasters exclusively use arabica beans, the majority use combine both varieties to lower costs and maintain good quality coffee beans. To preserve the integrity of flavor you must select an excellent bean from a reliable source. This can be achieved by purchasing your beans direct from a farmer.

Liberica

Liberica beans have a shape that is similar to a football, that makes them different from other types of coffee beans. They have a distinctive aroma that is fruity and floral with smoky undertones. They are often added to other bean varieties to provide a more intense, fuller flavor.

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

These qualities make them ideal for growing at home. You can purchase seeds from a variety of sources. However, it is recommended to purchase the beans from local producers in order to guarantee quality. The ideal conditions for the cultivation of Liberica coffee plants are fertile deep volcanic soils, with moderately acidic pH, and sufficient annual rainfall.

Excelsa is a different kind of coffee bean. It was initially classified as a distinct species, but has now been classified as a Liberica variant. The coffee beans that are oval in shape are grown on large coffee plants that can reach 20-30 feet in height at moderate altitudes. Their distinctive flavor is sweet and tart, making them a popular choice for house blends. They have a milder aroma and higher caffeine content that is lower than Arabica or Robusta but still have a distinctive depth of flavor.

Excelsa

Excelsa coffee beans aren't as popular as Arabica and Robusta although they're fourth popular. In fact, they were considered a separate coffee plant species until 2006 when they were classified as a synonym for Coffea liberica var. dewevrei. Currently, they're cultivated primarily in Southeast Asia and account for 7% of the world's production of coffee. The coffee beans are shaped as teardrops and are dark and mysterious in taste. They're often used in blends to add extra body and a luscious tart, ripe fruit flavor.

Arabica beans are the most popular and are renowned for their the most delicious taste. They thrive in tropical, warm environments and at high altitudes. They also have a hint of acidity. If properly brewed and roasted they may impart notes like nuts, chocolate or even fruit.

Robusta is the second most adored coffee in the world, and is responsible for around 40% of the coffee consumed in the world. Robusta beans are smaller and rounder, but have twice the amount of caffeine as Arabica. They are also more bitter than the other two types and have an earthy, woody flavor.

After you've learned about the four most widely used varieties of coffee beans, it's time to choose the perfect coffee. If you're looking for a silky and delicate taste, go for an arabica bean or a blend of arabica and robusta beans.