Coffea arabica is an evergreen Shrub growing to 6 m (19ft) by 3 m (9ft) at a medium rate. It is hardy to UK zone 10. The flowers are pollinated by Bees. The plant is self-fertile.

Suitable for: medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Edible Uses

Coffea arabica accounts for 60% of the world's coffee production. The dried seeds ('beans') are roasted, ground, and brewed to make one of the two most popular beverages globally. Coffee is widely used as a flavouring in ice cream, pastries, candies, and liqueurs.

The seed has been used as a masticatory since ancient times. Cooked in butter, it can be used to make rich flat cakes. An extract from the seeds is used as a flavouring in ice cream etc. The dried, roasted green seeds are used as an appetizer, whilst chocolate-covered roasted seeds are used as a gourmet snack. The red fruits and leaves are chewed for their stimulating properties.

Leaves - cooked. The cooked leaves have a strong brown colour, a good texture and a relatively neutral flavour with only a hint of bitterness [298 ]. The leaves contain more caffeine than the fruit and are sometimes used as a tea substitute.

Medicinal Uses

The coffee plant (Coffea arabica or Coffea canephora) has been used in traditional medicine for centuries, particularly in Africa and Asia. While coffee is widely known for its stimulant properties, various parts of the plant have been used to treat a range of health conditions. Here are some of the medicinal uses of the coffee plant:

Medicinal Uses of Coffee Plant Parts

1. *Leaves*: Coffee leaves have been used to treat various ailments, including:
1. Fever: Infusions of coffee leaves have been used to reduce fever.
2. Rheumatism: Leaves are used to treat rheumatism and other inflammatory conditions.
3. Skin conditions: Coffee leaves are used to treat skin conditions like eczema, acne, and dermatitis.
2. *Seeds (Coffee Beans)*: Coffee beans have been used to treat:
1. Digestive issues: Coffee has been used to treat digestive issues like bloating, gas, and diarrhea.
2. Headaches: Caffeine in coffee beans can help relieve tension headaches.
3. Fatigue: Caffeine can help increase alertness and reduce fatigue.
3. *Roots*: Coffee roots have been used to treat:
1. Fever: Infusions of coffee roots have been used to reduce fever.
2. Malaria: Coffee roots have been used in traditional medicine to treat malaria.
4. *Fruits (Coffee Cherries)*: Coffee cherries have been used to treat:
1. Digestive issues: Coffee cherries have been used to treat digestive issues like diarrhea and dysentery.

Other Medicinal Compounds Found in Coffee Plants
1. *Caffeine*: Caffeine has been shown to have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties.
2. *Polyphenols*: Coffee plants contain various polyphenols, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
3. *Trigonelline*: Trigonelline, a compound found in coffee plants, has been shown to have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties.

Precautions and Contraindications
While coffee plants have been used in traditional medicine for centuries, it is essential to note the following:

1. *Caffeine toxicity*: Excessive caffeine consumption can lead to toxicity, especially in children, pregnant women, and people with certain medical conditions.
2. *Interactions with medications*: Caffeine and other compounds in coffee plants can interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners, and reduce their effectiveness.
3. *Allergic reactions*: Some people may be allergic to coffee or other compounds in the coffee plant, which can cause allergic reactions.

In conclusion, the coffee plant has been used in traditional medicine for various purposes, and its medicinal properties are still being researched. However, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before using any part of the coffee plant for medicinal purposes.

For more information please see the PFAF website here.

Sold as well rooted cuttings in 0.5l pot