| Robusta Coffee | |
| Coffea canephora |
Similar to Arabica coffee, but sometimes considered inferior in flavor.
Description: Small tree, usually reaching just 10-20ft in height. Robusta coffee is resistant
to coffee rust.
Hardiness: It is a hardy
plant, similar in climatic requirements to common coffee, but cannot
be successfully grown where temperatures dip below 32F for any length
of time. It may succeed marginally in subtropical areas. An optimum
temperature range falls roughly between 65-80F.
Growing Environment: Grow in part shade. Water regularly. Grow in well-drained soil. Makes a great container specimen.
Propagation: By seeds, which should be planted in well-drained soil and kept at 75-85F. They usually germinate in a few weeks to a couple of months.
Uses: The beans are usually inferior in flavor to Arabica varieties, and are often used in instant coffees, or mixed with Arabica blends.
Native Range: Native to West Africa. Cultivated in tropical regions throughout the world.