Robusta coffee (Coffea canephora)
Care, watering, light and tips for Robusta coffee on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Rubiaceae
- Difficulty: Moderate care
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Robusta coffee
Coffea canephora, known as Robusta coffee, is a coffee plant species native to central and western Africa, valued for its hardiness and high yield. It produces coffee beans with a stronger flavor and higher caffeine content than Arabica. This attractive plant can be grown indoors in large pots or outdoors in tropical climates, adding an exotic touch to any space.
Native range
Central and Western Africa, specifically from Liberia to Uganda and Angola
Care tips
Robusta coffee prefers bright, indirect light; direct sunlight can scorch its leaves. Keep the soil consistently moist, but avoid waterlogging, especially during flowering and fruit development. Use a well-draining, slightly acidic substrate rich in organic matter. A common mistake is insufficient ambient humidity, which can cause brown leaf tips; mist its leaves regularly or use a humidifier.
How to save a dying Robusta coffee
- Warning signs
- Yellow or brown falling leaves, dry and crispy edges, stunted growth, soft stems.
- First aid
- Check drainage and substrate moisture. Ensure no waterlogging or extreme dryness. Place in bright indirect light with good humidity.
- What kills it
- Overwatering (root rot) or prolonged extreme dryness (wilting and drying). Also, intense direct sunlight.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if roots are not completely rotten and the main stem is still firm. Act quickly.