Coffea arabica, commonly known as the coffee plant, is an evergreen shrub or small tree native to the understory of the montane rainforests of southwestern Ethiopia and southeastern Sudan. It prefers a cool, tropical climate at high altitudes, typically between 3,900 and 6,200 feet (1,200-1,900 meters). Coffea arabica can grow to a height of 9-12 feet (2.7-3.7 meters) and has a bushy form with glossy, dark green leaves. It produces fragrant, small white flowers that blossom in the rainy season and give way to red to purple cherries, each containing two seeds, which are the coffee beans. The flowers are moderately showy, and the plant is valued for its attractive foliage as well as its fruit.

Coffea arabica is cultivated for its seeds, which are processed to produce coffee, one of the most popular beverages worldwide. It is also grown as an ornamental plant in tropical gardens and can be kept as a houseplant in cooler climates. In cultivation, it requires consistent moisture without waterlogging, rich and well-draining soil, and partial shade to mimic its natural understory habitat. It is not drought-tolerant and needs protection from direct afternoon sun. While generally disease-resistant, coffee plants can be susceptible to pests like coffee borer beetles and fungal diseases such as coffee leaf rust. Over-fertilization can lead to nutrient imbalances and poor bean quality.CC BY-SA 4.0