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The Coffee Arabica plant (Coffea arabica) is not only a stunning houseplant with its glossy green leaves but also a piece of the coffee story, as it's the source of the beans that fuel our mornings. While it’s unlikely your indoor Coffee Arabica will produce enough beans for your daily cup, it can still grow into a beautiful and rewarding houseplant. Here's everything you need to know to care for this tropical beauty.
Coffee Arabica plants thrive in bright, indirect light. Place your plant near an east- or west-facing window where it can receive filtered sunlight. While they can tolerate some morning sun, harsh direct rays can scorch the leaves. If you don’t have enough natural light, a grow light can be used to supplement.
These plants prefer consistently moist soil but are sensitive to overwatering. Water your Coffee Arabica when the top 1–2 inches of soil feel dry. Use filtered or distilled water to avoid mineral buildup, as they are sensitive to tap water. In winter, reduce watering slightly to match the plant’s slower growth rate.When watering into a pot without drainage holes, be sure to discard any excess water to prevent root rot or pests.
As a tropical plant, Coffee Arabica enjoys warm temperatures between 65–75°F (18–24°C). Avoid exposing it to cold drafts or temperatures below 55°F (13°C). High humidity is essential for its health; aim for at least 50% humidity. Increase humidity by misting the plant regularly, placing it near a humidifier, or using a pebble tray filled with water.
Coffee Arabica plants thrive in well-draining, slightly acidic soil. A mix designed for African violets or a combination of regular potting soil, peat moss, and perlite works well. Repot your coffee plant every 1–2 years or when it becomes root-bound, using a pot that is slightly larger than the current one to allow room for growth.
Feed your Coffee Arabica plant with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every month during the growing season (spring and summer). Choose a fertilizer formulated for acid-loving plants to maintain the soil’s pH level. Reduce or stop fertilizing during fall and winter when the plant’s growth slows.
Prune your Coffee Arabica plant to encourage bushier growth and maintain its shape. Remove any yellowing or damaged leaves by using a clean, sharp scissors. If the plant grows too tall, trim the tips to encourage branching. Regularly clean the leaves with a damp cloth to remove dust and improve photosynthesis.
Under optimal conditions, a mature Coffee Arabica plant may produce small, fragrant white flowers, followed by green coffee cherries that ripen to red. However, flowering and fruiting indoors are rare without consistent high humidity, bright light, and warmth. If you're lucky enough to see fruit, it can take several months to ripen fully.
Coffee Arabica plants can be propagated through seeds or stem cuttings. For seeds, plant fresh coffee beans in moist, well-draining soil and keep them warm and humid. Germination can take a few weeks to several months. For stem cuttings, cut a healthy stem with a few leaves, dip the cut end in rooting hormone, and plant it in moist soil. Cover the pot with a plastic bag to maintain humidity until roots develop.
Coffee Arabica plants are considered toxic to pets if ingested, as they contain caffeine and other compounds harmful to cats and dogs. Keep the plant out of reach of pets to avoid any potential issues.