Coffee species that count in the world production market are:
- Arabica (Coffea arabica), is native to Ethiopia, Mozambique, and the Great Lakes area of Africa. It provides about 80-90 percent of the world’s coffee production. It is most often grown on plantations in the intertropical zone of Africa, South America, Ceylon, Java, and Sumatra. It blooms and fruits throughout the year. The caffeine content of roasted arabica beans is about 1.5 percent. Because of its glossy leaves, white fragrant flowers, and colorful fruits, it is sometimes grown in pots and is an ornamental plant
- Robusta (Coffea canephora), originated in Africa but is also grown in other areas of the world with warm climates. It is easier to grow than arabica, so it is cheaper to produce. It is more bitter and contains more caffeine than arabica coffee. Robusta is used in cheaper blends as a filler. It is used in the production of instant coffees and espresso blends. Its share of world production is about 30 percent
- Liberica (Coffea liberica), is grown in Africa, Ceylon, Java, and Madagascar. It is characterized by greater resistance to pests compared to arabica and produces higher yields. It is, however, less aromatic. In world production, its share is about 1 percent.
