The coffee tree, native to the mountains of Ethiopia, is not only the most consumed beverage in the world after water, it is also a chic, symbolic and characterful houseplant.
So why not invite this plant to take root in your living room or conservatory?
The coffee tree – Coffea arabica – is native to the mountains of Ethiopia. Legend has it that an Ethiopian shepherd once noticed that after nibbling on mysterious red berries, his goats were bursting with energy. Intrigued, he tasted them himself: the magic of coffee was born. From there, the plant travelled to Yemen, where monks used it to stay awake during their night-time prayers, before conquering Europe and becoming a universal symbol of conviviality.
Coffee in figures
- Coffee is the second most consumed beverage in the world after water. Every day, more than 2.25 billion cups are drunk.
- More than 70 countries grow coffee in tropical regions.
- The coffee industry supports approximately 125 million people worldwide.
- Approximately 10 million tonnes of green coffee are produced each year.
- Arabica accounts for around 60 to 65% of global production. It is milder and more aromatic than Robusta, which is stronger and richer in caffeine.
- In 2024, the global coffee market is estimated to be worth over $450 billion.
A chic and exotic shrub
Did you know that it takes about 5 to 6 years for a coffee tree to start producing fruit and between 2,000 and 3,000 fruits to obtain just 1 kilo of roasted coffee?
With its deep green, leathery leaves and delicately wavy habit, the coffee tree brings a refined tropical touch to any room. In the right conditions, it can grow to a metre tall or more, while retaining a harmonious shape.
If you are lucky, and above all patient, it will reward you with delicate white flowers with a sweet jasmine scent. And sometimes even a few small red ‘cherries’ containing the famous coffee beans. A rare and all the more precious reward.
How to care for your coffee tree?
Place your coffee tree in bright but filtered light. An east- or west-facing window is ideal. It likes light but not scorching sun. In terms of temperature, it needs between 18 and 24°C and a tropical humidity level. In winter, mist its foliage regularly or place it near a humidifier to recreate its natural environment.
Be careful, coffee trees do not like draughts or dry atmospheres.
