The Coffea Arabica, or Coffee Tree, is a delightful addition to any indoor plant collection. Even before they are mature enough to flower, these plants are stunning with their highly glossy and ruffled, deep green leaves. They grow as upright shrubs or small trees, bringing a sophisticated, unique look to your space.
At Over Grown, we love the Coffee Tree for its lush and rewarding nature. While it takes some patience and specific care to see those famous flowers and cherries forming, the journey of growing one is a joy for any plant enthusiast.
Coffee Tree Lighting
In their native environments in Ethiopia, coffee trees grow under the layer of taller trees. They prefer bright light but are sensitive to intense heat.
- Ideal light conditions: Bright, indirect light is what they crave. A spot near an east-facing window or set back a few feet from a south or west window provides the consistent energy they need without the risk of leaf burn.
- The growth: If the light is too low, the plant will grow very slowly and the stems may become "leggy" with fewer leaves.
- Avoid: Direct, midday sun will quickly scorch the glossy finish of the leaves, leading to brown, papery spots.
- Signs of improper light: Faded or yellowish leaves often indicate too much sun, while a lack of new growth usually means the plant needs a brighter location.
Coffee Tree Watering
Coffee trees are thirsty plants that prefer a consistent moisture level. They do not like to dry out, but they can also still be overwatered if soil stays too soggy.
- How often to water: Water thoroughly when the top couple inches of soil feels dry. You want the soil to remain moist at all times.
- Check the soil: Use the finger test frequently. During the summer, you may find your coffee tree needs watered a couple times a week.
- Avoid: Letting the soil go bone-dry. If the soil dries out completely, the plant will wilt dramatically and may lose several leaves.
- Signs of improper watering: Drooping leaves are a classic sign of thirst. But, if the leaves turn yellow and drop while the soil is still wet, it may be a sign of overwatering.
Coffee Tree Soil and Fertilization
A rich, slightly acidic soil that drains well is the key to a healthy coffee tree root system.
- Potting medium: A soil blend that retains moisture while allowing for aeration is ideal. We use and recommend Rosy Soil’s Houseplant mix, available in-store, which offers the perfect organic structure for these tropical trees. Learn more in our blog, ‘All About Rosy.’
- Fertilizing: Coffee trees are relatively heavy feeders during the growing season. Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer every 4 weeks in the spring and summer. Our liquid fertilizer drops are a great way to keep your tree fueled and its leaves looking vibrant.
Coffee Tree Humidity & Leaf Care
Coffee trees crave moisture in the air as much as they do in their soil.
- Methods to increase humidity: High humidity (50% or higher) is essential for preventing crispy leaf edges. A nearby humidifier is the best solution, but grouping your tree with other plants also helps. For more tips on increasing humidity, check out our blog, 'Humidity 101.'
- Clean the foliage: Those glossy leaves are the star of the show, but they can easily collect dust. Wipe them down with a soft, damp cloth every few weeks to maintain their shine and keep the plant healthy.
Coffee Tree Pests and Treatment
While generally resilient, coffee trees can be targeted by pests if the air is too dry or the plant is under stress.
- Common Pests: Watch for Scale (brown bumps on the stems) or Mealybugs (white cottony fluff in the leaf axils). Spider Mites can also occur in dry environments.
- Treatment: Isolate the plant immediately and wipe down the leaves. We recommend a thorough application of our Plant Protect Spray to ensure your coffee tree stays healthy. For more help, visit our blog, ‘Identifying & Treating Houseplant Pests.’
Coffee trees are very expressive, and most issues are easily fixed with a few environmental adjustments.
Brown, Crispy Leaf Edges
- Causes: This is almost always due to low humidity or the soil drying out too much between waterings.
- Solutions: Increase humidity immediately and ensure you are watering as soon as the top bit of soil is dry.
Sudden Leaf Drop
- Causes: Often a reaction to a sudden change, such as a cold draft from a window or a significant shift in temperature.
- Solutions: Keep your coffee tree in a stable, warm location away from AC vents or drafty doors.
Yellowing Leaves
- Causes: Can be a sign of overwatering or a lack of nutrients in the soil.
- Solutions: Check your drainage and ensure you are following a regular fertilization schedule during the spring and summer.
How to keep your coffee tree lush and glossy:
- Lighting: Bright, indirect light, but keep them out of the direct sun.
- Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but never soggy.
- Humidity: High humidity is the secret to those pristine, shiny leaves.
Stop by Over Grown to see our current selection of coffee trees and let our team help you find the perfect one for your houseplant collection!
We hope this guide helps your coffee trees grow lush and beautiful! For more expert advice and community updates, sign up for our newsletter below.