Mauritius Coffee
coffea mauritiana
Also known as: ["Mauritian Coffee Plant"]
Overview
A species of coffee plant native to Mauritius, known for its potential to produce coffee beans.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","medicinal use","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Gentianales |
| Family: | Rubiaceae |
| Genus: | Coffea |
| Botanical Name: | Coffea mauritiana |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- 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":"10–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain high humidity, especially in dry environments
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Rich, well-draining potting mix with organic matter and perlite.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; adjust to morning sun in winter and dappled shade in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Gradually acclimate to direct light to prevent scorching; place in filtered sunlight outdoors; shield from intense afternoon sun indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to filtered light
Rotate plant weekly; use sheer curtains for protection; avoid direct midday sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing to every 14–21 days in winter
Maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging; ensure good drainage; adjust based on season and growth stage.
Soil
well-draining, rich, slightly acidic potting mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix with good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 65–80°F (18–27°C); cooler in winter (55–65°F) to encourage dormancy.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain stable conditions.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer with balanced liquid fertilizer, none in winter
Fertilize after watering; flush soil occasionally to prevent buildup; avoid over-fertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings with at least two 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 (70–80%), warm (70–75°F), indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or cactus soil.
Hormone
Recommended to promote root development.
Timeline
Roots in 4–8 weeks; establish in 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic wrap.
Quick Tips
Use healthy parent plant; keep consistently moist; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective cutting of stems to maintain shape and health.
Pruning Plan
Shape plant, remove dead/diseased growth, and encourage bushier form.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruners or scissors.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune dead/diseased parts; shape evenly; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter).
Method
Remove old soil, trim roots if needed, place in new pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots outgrow the pot to refresh soil and space.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; trim roots; use fresh soil; water gently.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water deeply at the root zone until it drains from the bottom; avoid wetting foliage; 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; ensure aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves (cold), leaf drop (heat), stunted growth (extremes).
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf drop, and may lead to root damage in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer spot; insulate pot; avoid cold drafts; reduce watering.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, and reduced flowering due to excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water early morning or late evening; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; rinse periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats are sensitive to caffeine and alkaloids found in Coffea mauritiana. Ingestion can lead to mild to moderate toxicity, affecting the central nervous system and cardiovascular system.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe caffeine and alkaloids in Coffea mauritiana can be mildly toxic to dogs, particularly if consumed in large amounts. These compounds can overstimulate the dog's nervous system and cardiovascular system.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicCoffea mauritiana contains caffeine and other alkaloids that can cause mild to moderate physiological effects when ingested in significant quantities. These compounds stimulate the central nervous system and can lead to increased heart rate and other systemic responses.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Coffea mauritiana the same as regular coffee?
A: Coffea mauritiana is a distinct species of coffee plant, though it is related to the species that produce commercial coffee beans.
Q: How do I care for a Coffea mauritiana plant?
A: Provide bright, indirect light, well-draining soil, and moderate watering, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Q: Does Coffea mauritiana produce coffee beans?
A: Yes, this species can produce coffee beans, though they may not be commercially viable like those from Coffea arabica or Coffea canephora.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Rubiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to filtered ligh |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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