Coffee Flower
Coffea arabica L.
Coffee flowers are small, fragrant, star-shaped white blooms with a sweet jasmine-like scent. These delicate flowers grow in clusters and produce the cherries containing coffee beans, one of the world's most beloved beverages.
Rubiaceae (Coffee family)
Late spring to early summer (May-June), after rainy season in tropics
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: black-eyed susan vines and red hot pokers also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
Coffee flowers represent the beginning of one of the world's most important cultural beverages. Native to Ethiopian highlands, coffee's discovery is legendary: goats became energetic after eating the berries, leading humans to try them. By 1000 AD, Arabs were cultivating coffee, and by the 16th century, it reached Europe. The first English coffee house opened in Oxford in 1650, and these establishments became centers of intellectual and political revolution. Today, coffee is consumed by millions daily and represents global trade, social connection, and morning rituals. The delicate white flowers symbolize purity and the transformative power of nature, as these small blooms become the energizing beans that fuel human creativity and connection worldwide.Shop Our Floral Collection
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Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Light shade to partial sun (understory plant); protect from direct afternoon sun
Water
Moderate to high; requires 1.0-1.5 meters of rain evenly distributed; consistent moisture important
Soil
Well-drained, Fertile, Organically rich, Slightly acidic, Volcanic
Expert Growing Tips
Trees first flower at 3-4 years old, full production at 6-8 years
Flowers bloom only on new growth
Sweet fragrance resembles jasmine flowers
Fruits (coffee cherries) ripen 7-9 months after flowering
Prefers temperatures between 59-75°F (15-24°C); not frost tolerant
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Container plant for patios and sunrooms
- Houseplant in bright indirect light
- Specimen shrub in tropical landscapes
- Hedge or shrub borders in frost-free zones
- Educational plantings about coffee production
Traditional Uses
- Coffee beans contain caffeine, a natural stimulant
- Moderate coffee consumption may lower blood pressure
- Rich in antioxidants and beneficial compounds
- Historical use by monks to stay awake during prayers
- Traditional consumption as energy food in Ethiopia
Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Coffee Flower
What do coffee flowers smell like?
Coffee flowers have a sweet, fragrant aroma that closely resembles jasmine flowers. The scent is highly pleasant and attracts pollinators to the blooms.
How long after flowering do coffee cherries ripen?
Coffee cherries ripen 7-9 months after flowering. The cherries change from green to yellow, then light red, and finally deep red when fully ripe and ready for harvest.
When do coffee plants bloom?
Coffee plants typically bloom in late spring to early summer (May-June) after the rainy season in tropical regions. In ideal conditions, they may bloom twice per season on new growth.
Can coffee plants grow indoors?
Yes, Coffea arabica makes an attractive houseplant when grown in well-draining soil with bright indirect light and high humidity. Indoor plants are usually kept at 4-6 feet tall and may flower after 3-4 years.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
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