Is Coffee a Plant or Tree?

Coffee is one of the most popular beverages consumed around the world. It has a rich, complex flavor that can be enjoyed any time of the day. However, not many people know whether coffee is a plant or a tree. In this article, we will explore the answer to this question.

Coffee is a Plant

The short answer to the question above is that coffee is a plant. Specifically, coffee is a shrub that belongs to the family Rubiaceae. It is indigenous to the tropical regions of Africa but is now grown in many other regions around the world. The coffee shrub can reach heights of up to 10 meters, but it is usually pruned to a more manageable height of around 2-3 meters.

The coffee shrub has dark green leaves that are glossy and waxy in appearance. They are arranged in pairs and have a pointed tip. The coffee plant produces white, star-shaped flowers that have a pleasant aroma. These flowers are followed by small red or purple fruits known as coffee cherries. Each coffee cherry contains two coffee beans.

Coffee is Not a Tree

Although some people refer to coffee as a coffee tree, it is not a tree. A tree is defined as a plant with a single main stem or trunk that supports branches and leaves. A coffee shrub, on the other hand, has multiple stems that grow from the base. These stems can support several branches and leaves, but they do not form a single main trunk.

Another reason why coffee is not considered a tree is that it has a relatively short lifespan. A coffee shrub typically produces its first crop of coffee beans after three to four years of growth. After around 20 years, the plant will start to decline in productivity and will eventually be replaced.

The Importance of Coffee Plants

Coffee is one of the most valuable commodities in the world. It is estimated that over 2.25 billion cups of coffee are consumed every day. This high demand for coffee has made coffee plants an important crop for many countries, including Brazil, Vietnam, Colombia, and Ethiopia.

In addition to its economic importance, coffee plants are also important for their environmental benefits. Coffee plants are known for their ability to absorb carbon dioxide from the air, which can help to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. In addition, coffee plants provide habitat for many species of birds and other animals.

The Bottom Line

So, is coffee a plant or tree? The answer is that coffee is a plant. Specifically, it is a shrub that produces small red or purple fruits known as coffee cherries. These fruits contain two coffee beans that are harvested and roasted to produce the coffee that we all know and love. Although coffee plants are not considered trees, they are incredibly important for their economic and environmental value.