Published Sep 17, 2023
Arabica and Robusta are the primary coffee beans, making up 60% and 40% of global production. Liberica and Excelsa are less common, primarily found in Southeast Asia.
Arabica beans, originating in Ethiopia, are the world's most popular coffee beans. They cost more to produce due to their demanding growth conditions.
Robusta, the second most popular coffee bean, originated in sub-Saharan Africa and is now grown in Indonesia and Vietnam. It's budget-friendly but less heat-resistant than believed.
Coffea liberica, from West Africa, has a unique flavour. It thrives in hot, humid regions, mainly in Southeast Asia. Only 2% of world coffee is Liberica, with Malaysia producing over 95%.
Excelsa coffee beans were once considered a distinct species but are now classified as a type of Liberica. They primarily grow in Southeast Asia on tall coffee plants at medium altitudes.
When deciding on your coffee, it boils down to two main options: Arabica and Robusta. Robusta packs more caffeine and less sugar than Arabica, yet it tends to have a stronger and less acidity.