What kind of plant is coffee?

Coffee belongs to the genus Coffea, which includes over 100 species of plants. Coffea arabica and Coffea canephora are the two main species commercially cultivated for coffee production. These species are evergreen shrubs or small trees in the Rubiaceae family, native to tropical and subtropical regions of Africa and Asia.

The coffee plant typically has dark green, glossy leaves and produces clusters of small, white flowers. After pollination, the flowers develop into coffee cherries, each containing two coffee beans. These cherries are initially green and gradually ripen to a deep red color as they mature.

Coffee plants require specific growing conditions, including well-drained soil, moderate temperatures, adequate moisture, and protection from direct sunlight. They are also susceptible to various pests and diseases, which require careful management to ensure healthy crop yields.