Coffeeclues

Arabica coffee beans are the most preferred beans in the world. It is superior to robusta coffee variety. This article explains about its growth conditions and important characteristics.

Arabica Coffee Beans – Growth Conditions and Properties

• These beans are grown in the Arabian peninsula, the mountain region of Yemen. It is also called as mountain coffee. It is a much better coffee when compared to coffee Robusta.
• It has less caffeine content in it. They can grow to about 9 to 12m tall and have a branching system that is open. The leaves are ovate, elliptic, long, broad with dark green color. Flowers are white and have a diameter of 10 to 15mm. The fruit is called as berry and when it matures it turns to red or purple color. The berry has two seeds in it.
• It takes about seven years for the coffee beans to grow fully. They are cultivated at a very high altitudes. They are best grown if the temperature is around 20 degrees. It can also survive in low temperature but cannot grow in frost.
• When the beans change to red color, we can say that they are ready to be picked. They should be picked at the appropriate time to obtain the best ones.
• Arabica coffee bean has two important components cafestol and kahweol in it. These are diterpenes that cause health problems. Kahweol is known to elevate the liver enzymes. Cafestol is responsible for increasing bad cholesterol level. This substance is also present in robusta beans but high in Arabica coffee. However, filtration process removes these compounds and makes it safe to drink. These beans can also trigger migraines and ulcers. So, it is better that you limit your coffee intake.
• On the other note, this coffee is beneficial as it is rich in antioxidants. These antioxidants help in preventing cavities, heart arrhythmias and kills bacteria.