With its glossy, deep green leaves and naturally bushy growth habit, the Coffee Plant is a striking foliage plant that brings a lush, tropical feel to your space. Best known as the source of coffee beans, Coffea arabica is grown as an ornamental houseplant in the UK, where its foliage is the real star. Given the right conditions, mature plants may even produce small, fragrant white flowers, followed by red coffee cherries – though fruiting indoors is rare and slow.
Scientific Name
Coffea arabica (coffee of Arabia)
Coffea arabica was first described by Carl Linnaeus in 1753. Despite the name, it is native to Ethiopia rather than the Arabian Peninsula, where it was later widely cultivated and traded.
Common Name
Coffee Plant, Arabica Coffee Plant
Origin
Native to the highland forests of Ethiopia, East Africa
Light
Bright, indirect light is ideal. Coffee Plants naturally grow beneath forest canopies, so avoid strong, direct sunlight which can scorch the leaves. Too little light may lead to slow growth and leaf drop.
Water
Keep the soil evenly moist during the growing season, allowing the top few centimetres of soil to dry out between waterings. Reduce watering in winter when growth slows, but never allow the soil to fully dry out. Avoid letting the plant sit in water, as this can cause root rot.
Humidity
Thrives in higher humidity, reflecting its rainforest origins. Regular misting, a pebble tray, or placing the plant in a naturally humid room such as a kitchen or bathroom will help prevent brown leaf edges.
Soil
Use a well-draining, slightly acidic houseplant compost. Adding a little bark or perlite can help improve drainage while still retaining moisture. Repot every 2–3 years in spring.
Food
Feed every 2–3 waters during spring and summer with a balanced liquid houseplant feed. Reduce feeding in autumn and stop completely in winter.
Temperature
Prefers temperatures between 18–24°C. Keep away from cold draughts and avoid temperatures below 12°C.
Pet-safe
Toxic if ingested – keep out of reach of pets and children.
Sprouts Top Tips
If your Coffee Plant starts dropping leaves, it’s usually reacting to inconsistent watering or low humidity – aim for steady moisture and boost humidity to keep it happy.
Extras
Coffee Plants are slow growers indoors and can take several years to mature. Even without flowers or fruit, their glossy foliage makes them a beautiful long-term houseplant.
Did You Know?
Coffea arabica accounts for around 60–70% of the world’s coffee production, prized for its smoother, less bitter flavour compared to other coffee species.
