What is the common name of the coffee bean plant?

Common name for the coffee bean plant

Coffee beans are a widely used food and beverage ingredient that comes from a plant commonly known as the "coffee tree." This name may be familiar to you, as we can see products related to it in stores, cafes, and homes. But do you really know this plant? In this article, we will explore in depth various aspects of the "coffee tree."

Origin and distribution

The coffee tree (Coffea) belongs to a genus under the Rubiaceae family. It is mainly distributed in tropical regions, including Africa, Asia and South America. The earliest discovery of the plant can be traced back to the 9th century AD, when it was used as food and medicine by local people in southern Ethiopia.

Appearance characteristics

The "coffee tree" is usually an evergreen tree or shrub, ranging in height from 6 to 15 meters. Its leaves are arranged oppositely and have a smooth and shiny surface. The flowers are small and white, gathered in axillary or terminal panicles. The fruit is an oval or spherical berry, red or purple when ripe.

Main varieties

There are several main varieties of the "coffee tree", the most common of which are Arabica (Coffea arabica) and Robusta (Coffea cane PHora). Arabica is considered to be a high-quality and better-tasting variety, and it usually grows at high altitudes and requires warmer and more humid climate conditions. Robusta is more adapted to lower altitudes and has a stronger adaptability to the environment.

Cultivation and harvest

The cultivation of the "coffee tree" requires a certain degree of expertise and skill. It usually grows in fertile and well-drained soil and is maintained at a relatively stable temperature. In addition to suitable soil conditions, sufficient sunlight, moderate rainfall and reasonable management are also necessary to ensure stable yield and quality.

The harvesting of coffee beans usually needs to be done manually because fruits of different maturity levels exist on the same tree at the same time. Farmers will check regularly and choose the right time to pick them. The picked fruits are then processed, including peeling, fermentation, drying and other steps.

Processing and baking

From the farm to our cups, coffee beans undergo a series of complex and delicate processing and roasting processes. The first step is to remove the outer pulp and inner mucilage, and ferment them to remove residual substances. The next step is to dry or sun-dry to reduce the moisture content.

The last important step is roasting, which will directly affect the taste and flavor characteristics of the coffee beans. Different degrees of roasting will bring different flavor characteristics: light roasting retains the floral and fruity aromas of the original coffee beans; medium to dark roasting gives a richer, more bitter, cocoa or nutty flavor.

Global Impact

As an important agricultural product, coffee beans have a profound impact on the global economy and society. According to statistics, the amount of coffee beans consumed worldwide each year exceeds 40 million tons. It is not only one of the main export commodities of many countries, but also an indispensable drink in the daily life of many people.

In addition, the coffee industry also creates a large number of jobs and provides economic support to poor areas. Many farmers and workers rely on coffee cultivation and processing to make a living.

Conclusion

The coffee tree is a remarkable and historic plant that plays a vital role in our daily lives. This article helps us better understand the complex processes and global impact of this plant.

Whether you are someone who loves to taste the flavor of coffee, cares about sustainable development, or is interested in the agricultural industry, I believe you have gained some new knowledge from this article and have a deeper understanding of the wonders of the "coffee tree".