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Coffee Bean Types: Arabica, Robusta, Liberica, and Excelsa If you're a coffee lover you're likely aware that different beans produce varying flavor profiles. Learn about four of the most widely used varieties: Arabica. Robusta. Liberica. and Excelsa. Excelsa beans are one of the varieties of Liberica that is only grown in Southeast Asia. They have a more fruity and tarter flavor profile, and are often added to blends of coffee to add depth. Arabica Arabica coffee beans are responsible for 75% of the world's production. Arabica beans have a sweeter and less sour flavor than Robusta and are available in a variety profiles. The taste and aroma components of a coffee can vary in a wide range depending on the cultivation conditions and the processing methods used to make it. The word 'coffee' actually comes from the Arabic word for berry and coffee beans are fruit seeds which grow inside bright red berries. It is believed that ancient Ethiopian shepherds noticed that their goats became stimulated after eating these fruit, and the cultivation of coffee soon was a global phenomenon. Coffee beans can be grown at high altitudes and flourish in cool temperatures and lots of rain. This is the reason Arabica coffee is thought to be the most delicious type of coffee. Many specialty coffee shops and roasters concentrate on ethical sourcing of arabica beans, focusing on fair wages for farmers and sustainable farming practices. These companies typically blend arabica beans to make unique signature coffees that can be used in various brewing methods. Blending can be used to control coffee bean suppliers , flavor as well as body and acidity of the coffee. It is frequently preferred to achieve a balanced and consistent taste that appeals to a larger market. Robusta Robusta beans (Coffea canephora) are the second most popular type of coffee bean that is grown worldwide. They contain more caffeine per bean than Arabica, and are more resistant to disease and pests. They also contain higher levels of chlorogenic acids that are antioxidants found naturally. These acids can cause oxidation in the brewing process, and can result in undesirable flavors. The plant is more resilient than the arabica and is able to grow in less favorable environments. It can withstand temperatures that are higher and thrives in direct sun. It is faster growing and produces more coffee per plant than arabica, making it a more cost-effective plant to cultivate. Although it may sound contradictory however, arabica and robusta beans are often blended to make coffee blends. If you see names like Uganda or Kenya on the bag of coffee it's likely that there is also some robusta. The majority of roasters utilize a mix of arabica and coffee beans to cut costs and ensure the quality. To preserve the quality of the flavor, it's essential to select a top-quality bean from a source that you are confident with. The best way to do this is to buy your beans directly from the farmer. Liberica Liberica beans are more or less football shaped and are therefore distinct from other varieties of coffee beans. They are characterized by a smell that is floral, fruity and smoky. They are often blended with other coffee bean varieties to create an extra, stronger flavor. Liberica coffee beans can be found in West Africa, Malaysia (Borneo) and Southeast Asia. They are tolerant of hot, humid climates and can thrive at low altitudes. They are also more resistant to disease than Arabica or Robusta. These qualities make them ideal for growing at home. You can purchase the seeds from many sources. However, it's recommended to purchase the beans from local producers in order to ensure quality. The ideal conditions for the cultivation of Liberica coffee include fertile deep volcano soils, with a pH that is moderately acidic and sufficient annual rainfall. Another kind of coffee bean is Excelsa which was originally thought to be a separate species, but was re-classified as an alternative to Liberica. These coffee beans are oval-shaped and are grown on large coffee plants, which can grow to 20 to 30 feet in height at moderate altitudes. Their distinctive taste is sweet and tart, making them a popular choice for blends in the home. They are also lighter in scent and caffeine than Arabica and Robusta and Robusta, yet they have a distinct richness of flavor. Excelsa Although they're the fourth most popular type of coffee beans, Excelsa beans aren't quite as easily accessible as Arabica or Robusta. They were considered to be an entirely different species of coffee until 2006 when they were reclassified to become a synonym for Coffea Liberica var. dewevrei. Currently, they're cultivated primarily in Southeast Asia and account for 7 percent of the world's coffee production. These coffee beans have the shape of a teardrop and have a dark, mysterious taste. These beans are commonly used to give blends additional body and a rich tart taste of ripe fruit. Arabica beans are by far the most popular and are known for their sweeter flavor. They thrive in tropical, warm climates as well as at higher altitudes. They also have a bit of acidity. When roasted and brewed correctly, they can have notes like chocolate, nuts or even fruit. Robusta is the second most popular coffee around the world. It accounts for about 40% of all coffee consumed worldwide. Robusta beans are smaller and more round but they have twice as much caffeine as Arabica. They are also bitterer than the other two types and have an earthy, woody taste. After you've learned about the four most widely used varieties of coffee beans now is the time to pick your perfect brew. If you're looking for a silky mild flavor, go for an arabica bean or a blend of robusta and arabica beans.