Over the years, coffee enthusiasts have meticulously cultivated and selectively bred coffee beans to cater to their preferred tastes. Despite the existence of over a hundred coffee plant species, the most well-known varieties in today's market are Arabica and Robusta, and to a lesser extent, Excelsa and Liberica.
The prominence of Arabica and Robusta can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, their flavor profiles have resonated with a wide range of consumers, establishing them as staples in the coffee industry. Arabica, known for its smooth and nuanced flavors, and Robusta, prized for its robust and bitter taste, have both carved out significant niches in the market.
The preference for Arabica is often underscored by its perceived superiority in taste and aroma compared to Robusta. It contains less caffeine and has richer flavour due to the fact that Arabica beans are commonly grown in the shade (If you haven't read our article "Sustainable Coffee: Unveiling Conservation Coffee Practices", check it out to learn about the difference between the sun-grown and shade-grown coffee beans). As a result, producers and distributors of coffee often strive to highlight the "100% Arabica" label as a mark of quality and distinction. Robusta, on the other hand is a sun-tolerant and commercially viable coffee plant. Robusta thrives in lower altitudes, making it a staple in coffee-producing regions like Indonesia, Vietnam, and some parts of Africa. Its robust nature grants it resistance to pests and harsh environmental conditions, resulting in higher yields and lower production costs. Consequently, coffee made from Robusta beans tends to be more affordable, yet this doesn't necessarily equate to inferior quality. In fact, many appreciate Robusta's bitter flavor and higher caffeine content, seeking out its invigorating kick. Despite its popularity, especially in cultures with a strong coffee tradition, luxury brands often favor pure Arabica due to its nuanced flavor profile and sophistication. Arabica's higher price point reflects not only its delicate growing conditions but also the refined taste it imparts. In essence, while Robusta satisfies those craving a bold, robust brew, Arabica remains the favorite of connoisseurs seeking coffee's finest flavors.
Despite the dominance of Arabica and Robusta, Excelsa and Liberica coffee species are known less in the coffee market. Excelsa primarily grows in Southeast Asian countries such as the Philippines and parts of Malaysia, while Liberica is native to West Africa, primarily Liberia, where it was discovered and named after. Both coffee bean types offer unique flavor profiles that cater to specific tastes and preferences. While they may not enjoy the same level of recognition due to lower production yield and less common taste, their inclusion in the coffee landscape adds diversity and depth to the industry, providing opportunities for exploration and experimentation for both producers and consumers alike.
Despite the plethora of coffee plant species, only a select few have garnered widespread popularity until nowadays. Among the challenges hindering the prominence of other species are difficulties in cultivation, lower yields, and susceptibility to diseases. Moreover, many of these lesser-known coffee species boast significantly lower caffeine content, something that people would not associate with the commonly known "coffee" and familiar Arabica and Robusta beans that dominate the market today. Despite these obstacles, the increased interest in specialty coffee has begun to shed light on alternative species, albeit Arabica and Robusta remain the most commercially viable and popular choices, followed by Liberica and Excelsa.