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Coffea Arabica Coffee Tropical Plant Care Exotic Gardens Miami, Botanical Print By Artist Ana Bikic Using Experimental AI |
Coffea Arabica — The Coffee Plant for Tropical Gardens in Miami
Plant Overview
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Scientific Name: Coffea arabica
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Common Name: Arabica Coffee
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Family: Rubiaceae
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Place of Origin: Native to the highlands of Ethiopia and South Sudan; widely cultivated throughout Central and South America, Africa, and parts of Asia.
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USDA Growing Zones: 10–11 outdoors, or indoors with bright indirect light.
Care Guide
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Light: Prefers bright, indirect sunlight; avoid harsh afternoon rays. Outdoors in Miami, partial shade is ideal.
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Water: Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Allow the top inch to dry before rewatering.
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Soil: Well-draining, rich, slightly acidic soil; a loamy mix with organic compost is ideal.
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Soil pH: Slightly acidic, around 6.0–6.5.
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Fertilization: Use a balanced, organic fertilizer monthly during growing season (spring to early fall).
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Humidity: Thrives in high humidity; mist regularly indoors.
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Temperature: Prefers 65–75°F; sensitive to frost.
Potting & Indoor Care
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Use large containers with drainage holes.
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Line the base with gravel for extra drainage.
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Repot every 2–3 years to refresh soil and manage root growth.
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Place near south- or east-facing windows if grown indoors.
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Ideal for balconies, patios, or sunrooms in South Florida.
Uses
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Culinary: Beans roasted for coffee; leaves used in traditional teas.
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Ornamental: Attractive foliage, fragrant flowers, and red berries add exotic appeal.
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Pollinator Friendly: Flowers attract bees and other pollinators.
Cultural & Historical Significance
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Arabica coffee is the world’s most popular coffee species, accounting for over 60% of global production.
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Revered in ancient Ethiopian and Yemeni culture; central to global trade and social rituals.
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Coffeehouses historically served as centers for intellectual exchange.
Medicinal and Functional Uses
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Traditional Uses: Brewed as a stimulant, digestive aid, and mild diuretic.
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Modern Findings:
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Contains antioxidants such as chlorogenic acid, caffeine, and polyphenols.
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Shown to support mental alertness, liver function, and metabolic health.
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Topical uses: Ground beans used in exfoliating skin products.
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Medicinal Studies and Nutritional Composition
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Caffeine is widely studied for its cognitive effects.
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Chlorogenic acid has been studied for potential anti-diabetic and anti-obesity properties.
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Coffee consumption is linked to reduced risks of Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s, and certain cancers.
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Rich in potassium, magnesium, niacin (vitamin B3), and antioxidants.
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