The coffee bean is the seed of the coffee plant known by its scientific name as Coffea. Coffee plants grow as shrubs or small trees and can only be grown in particular climates around the world. The coffee plants produce a fruit known as a coffee cherry with two coffee beans inside. Sometimes there is only one coffee bean which is called a ‘peaberry’.

The Cherry

The bean is the seed of a cherry-like fruit that grows from trees from the Rubiaceae family. These trees can reach around 10 to 15 metres in height in the wild, however, tend to be pruned for a higher yield and easy picking.

There are many types of species of coffee trees, but two dominate cultivation. Arabica and Robusta, and the main perceived difference between the two is taste.

Robusta has a perception of being stronger and a bit bitter. It’s used in blends often allowing the coffee to punch through milk-based beverages without being too washed out. The natural strength makes it more viable for instant coffees.

Arabica is more popular with specialty coffee with its sweeter varieties and less harsh flavours and is therefore considered a better quality bean.

The coffee cherry has five layers:

1. Skin – The protective layer surrounding the fruit.

2. Pulp – The flesh of the cherry, most of which is removed just after harvest

3. Mucilage – A sticky honey-like coating of the coffee bean.

4. Parchment – The outermost protective layer around the coffee bean itself.

5. Silverskin – The innermost of the coffee beans protective layer.

6. Coffee bean – Before this is roasted it is known as a green bean.