What is Robusta coffee?
Robusta is the common commercial name for coffee of the species Coffea canephora. It is widely grown and is particularly important in blends, instant coffee and markets where its agronomic characteristics are valuable.
The species
Coffea canephora is a different species from Coffea arabica. “Robusta” is widely used commercially, although the botanical and commercial terminology can be more nuanced.
Caffeine
Canephora coffee generally contains more caffeine than Arabica, although the amount in a finished drink depends on the coffee and brewing recipe.
Flavour
Robusta is often described as more bitter, earthy or heavy-bodied than Arabica, but quality and flavour vary widely. High-quality canephora can show a much broader sensory range than the stereotype suggests.
Where it is used
Canephora is important in espresso blends, soluble coffee and other products. It is also cultivated as a commercially significant crop in several tropical countries.