Coffee Production

coffee plantation

coffee production, cultivation of coffee plants, usually done in large commercial operations. The two major species of coffee plants (Coffea arabica and C. canephora; family Rubiaceae) are tropical evergreen shrubs or small trees of African origin. They are grown for the seeds, or beans, which are roasted, ground, and sold for brewing coffee. This article treats the cultivation of coffee plants and the harvesting and processing of the beans. For information on the beverage, see coffee. See also coffee roasting; history of coffee.

The Arabica species of coffee (C. arabica) is cultivated mostly in Latin America, while the Robusta variety of C. canephora predominates in Africa. Arabica is considered a milder, more flavourful and aromatic brew than Robusta, though the latter is a hardier plant and is thus cheaper to produce. It has twice the caffeine content of Arabica and is typically the bean of choice for inexpensive commercial coffee brands. Both coffee species are also grown in India, Indonesia, and other Asian countries. There are many varieties, forms, and types of each. The effects of environment and cultivation further increase this diversity.