How to Identify Robusta Coffee Beans? What Are the Characteristics of Robusta Coffee Beans?

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Coffee Tree Origins and Distribution

In botanical taxonomy, the coffee tree belongs to the Rubiaceae family. Coffee trees are native to the subtropical regions of Africa and some islands in southern Asia. During the 16th and 17th centuries, through the trade of Venetian merchants and the Dutch maritime hegemony, coffee was introduced to Europe. Exported from Africa to countries worldwide, coffee trees are now cultivated in more than 70 countries, primarily in equatorial regions such as the Americas, Southeast Asia, and India.

Coffee Tree Classification and Growing Conditions

The classification of coffee trees is complex, with many species, varieties, and cultivars. Different varieties of coffee beans have distinct flavors, but even coffee trees of the same variety produce beans with unique characteristics due to varying soil and climate conditions. Coffee trees are most susceptible to frost damage. After centuries of agricultural development, the main coffee-growing regions are centered around the equator, between the Tropic of Cancer and Tropic of Capricorn, where rainfall is abundant and temperatures range between 15-25°C. This area is known as the Coffee Belt or Coffee Zone.

Main Coffee Varieties

Generally, coffee is commonly classified by bean size into two types: one is the highly regarded Arabica, which has noticeable acidity and delicious flavor, known as small fruit (bean) coffee. The other is Robusta, which has larger beans, lower acidity, stronger bitterness, and higher caffeine content.

Robusta

Characteristics

Color: Yellow to yellow-gray

Shape: Oblate bean shape with straight center line

Origin: West Africa, inland Central Africa, and highlands of East Africa

Distribution: Lowlands of West and Central Africa, highlands of East Africa, Indonesia, Vietnam, India, Brazil, Ecuador, Guatemala, Mexico

Growth

Pollination: Cross-pollination

Chromosomes: 22 (2n)

Fruit Development: Fruits mature in 10-11 months

Flowering: Irregular

Optimal Temperature: Annual average of 20-26°C

Growing Altitude: 800-1200 meters

Rust Resistance: Disease-resistant

Processing Methods: Primarily natural, semi-washed, semi-natural, and wet-hulled

Brewing Characteristics: Weaker aroma, outstanding body and sweetness, weaker acidity

Market

Usage: Suitable for espresso blends and enhancing body and crema

In appearance, Robusta green coffee beans are elliptical, spherical, or nearly spherical, with a straight center line. Before selling, green bean suppliers polish Robusta beans, so whether green or roasted, Robusta beans are easily recognizable—they are reflective and feel smooth to the touch.

In FrontStreet Coffee's 【Commercial Blend】, we can find Robusta beans. With 10% Robusta added, the taste becomes relatively fuller and richer.

Important Notice :

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FrontStreet Coffee Address: 315,Donghua East Road,GuangZhou

Tel:020 38364473