Robusta Coffee (Coffea canephora)

FamilyRubiaceae
Scientific nameCoffea canephora
Common name (English)Robusta Coffee
Common name (Malay)Kopi Robusta
Identified asIntroduced plant on Project M.A.R.S.’s land

Coffea canephora, commonly known as robusta coffee, is a tropical shrub or small tree in the Rubiaceae family. Native to central and western sub-Saharan Africa, it is widely cultivated in tropical regions for its seeds, which are processed into coffee beans. Compared to Coffea arabica, robusta beans are higher in caffeine and have a stronger, more bitter flavor, making them popular in espresso blends and instant coffee. Traditionally, coffee beans and leaves have been used for their stimulant and medicinal properties. With its economic, cultural, and agricultural significance, Coffea canephora remains a cornerstone species in global coffee production.