India, a land renowned for its rich cultural tapestry and diverse landscapes, is also a coffee lover’s paradise. The country boasts a thriving coffee industry, producing various beans with unique flavors and aromas.
Coffee beans are primarily categorized into two main types Arabica and Robusta. While Arabica is often lauded for its superior taste and aroma, it’s also more susceptible to pests and diseases. The devastating coffee leaf rust epidemic in the 19th century highlighted this vulnerability, causing many farmers to abandon Arabica cultivation.
However, a turning point arrived with the introduction of Robusta coffee by Indonesian growers. This hardy variety, known for its higher caffeine content and stronger flavor, offered a more resilient alternative to Arabica. Today, Arabica and Robusta remain the two dominant coffee varieties, each contributing unique characteristics to the global coffee market.
Arbica coffe plants
Arabica coffee beans, renowned for their delicate flavor and aroma, are the most widely cultivated and consumed coffee beans globally. Grown in cooler, higher-altitude regions, they offer a sweet, fruity taste with hints of chocolate and nuts. Their lower acidity compared to other beans results in a less bitter cup.
India’s southern states of Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu are significant producers of Arabica coffee beans. Known for their exceptional quality, these beans are prized in specialty coffee blends. Notable Indian Arabica cultivars include Coorg, Bababudangiris, and Chikmagalur.
A mild, high-quality coffee with a complex aroma and delicate, sweet flavor. Arabica beans are grown at higher altitudes in cool, moist climates, and thrive in large, shaded plantations with nutrient-rich soil.
Robusta coffe plants
Robusta coffee beans, known for their robust flavor and high caffeine content, are the second most popular coffee bean worldwide. Grown in warmer, lower-altitude regions, they offer a strong, bitter taste with hints of chocolate and earthy notes.
India’s southern states of Kerala and Tamil Nadu are major producers of Robusta coffee beans. Often blended with Arabica beans to create a well-rounded flavor profile, Robusta Parchment and Kaapi Royale are two renowned Indian Robusta varieties. Buy Robusta Coffe plants
Liberica coffe plants
Liberica coffee beans, a rare variety grown primarily in Southeast Asia, offer a unique flavor profile with floral and fruity undertones. Their slightly woody taste and full-bodied texture, combined with low acidity and high caffeine content, make them distinct.
In India, Liberica beans are cultivated in the southern state of Kerala. While less common than Arabica or Robusta, they are prized in specialty coffee blends. Kaffa and Dewevrei are notable Indian Liberica varieties.
Excelsa coffe plants
Excelsa coffee beans, a lesser-known variety primarily grown in Southeast Asia, offer a complex flavor profile with notes of tartness, fruitiness, and earthiness. Their slightly nutty taste and medium body, combined with high acidity, make them unique.
In India, Excelsa beans are cultivated in the state of Kerala. While less widely available than Arabica or Robusta, they are prized in specialty coffee blends. Dalat and Catimor are popular Indian Excelsa varieties.