Abbayes Coffee
coffea abbayesii
Also known as: ["Abbayes Coffee Plant"]
Overview
A species of coffee plant native to Madagascar, valued for its ornamental foliage and potential for coffee bean production.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","medicinal use","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Gentianales |
| Family: | Rubiaceae |
| Genus: | Coffea |
| Botanical Name: | Coffea abbayesii |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, indirect light or shaded outdoor garden
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain humidity, especially in dry environments
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic potting mix with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; adjust to morning sun in winter.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light; protect from harsh afternoon sun; place in a spot with filtered light indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to filtered light
Avoid direct midday sun; rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains for protection.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing to every 2–3 weeks in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-draining, rich, slightly acidic potting mix
pH: 5.5–6.5 (slightly acidic).
Ensure good aeration; avoid heavy clay soils; test pH periodically.
Temperature
Ideal range 65–80°F (18–27°C); cooler in winter but avoid frost.
Protect from drafts; maintain stable temperatures; avoid sudden changes.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer with balanced liquid fertilizer, none in winter
Fertilize in spring/summer; avoid over-fertilizing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings with leaf nodes.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cutting.
- Apply hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), indirect light, and warm temperatures (70–75°F).
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or sand.
Hormone
Rooting hormone recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 4–8 weeks; establish in 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic wrap.
Quick Tips
Use healthy stems; keep consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Shape plant, remove dead/damaged growth, and encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruners or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure it has drainage holes.
Method
Use fresh potting mix; ensure good drainage; trim roots if pot-bound.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots outgrow the pot.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; handle roots gently; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, yellowing, or stunted growth; buds may fail to open.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf drop, and may lead to root damage in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate roots with mulch; avoid cold drafts.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering due to excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; rinse between feedings.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; reduce or stop in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are particularly sensitive to caffeine and related compounds in Coffea abbayesii. Even small amounts can cause significant physiological distress, affecting the nervous and cardiovascular systems.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicDogs are highly sensitive to caffeine and other alkaloids present in Coffea abbayesii. Ingestion can lead to severe central nervous system stimulation, cardiac issues, and metabolic disturbances.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicCoffea abbayesii contains caffeine and other alkaloids which can cause mild to moderate physiological effects when ingested in significant quantities. The primary impact is on the central nervous system, leading to increased alertness but also potential overstimulation.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Coffea abbayesii suitable for indoor cultivation?
A: Yes, it can be grown indoors with adequate light and humidity.
Q: Does Coffea abbayesii produce coffee beans?
A: Yes, it is a species of coffee plant and can produce coffee beans, though it is primarily grown for ornamental purposes.
Q: What are the common issues with growing Coffea abbayesii?
A: Common issues include yellow leaves, stunted growth, and fungal growth, often due to improper watering or lighting conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Rubiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to filtered ligh |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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