Coffea racemosa
Peruvian coffee
A semi-evergreen shrub to 2.5m, with opposite pairs of leathery, glossy leaves. In summer mature plants produce fragrant white flowers; these are followed by clusters of spherical, slowly-ripening, purple-black fruits called "cherries"
Size
Ultimate height
1.5–2.5 metresTime to ultimate height
5–10 yearsUltimate spread
1.5–2.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drainedpH
Acid, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | White | Green | ||
| Autumn | Green | Black Purple | ||
| Winter |
Position
- Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H1ABotanical details
- Family
- Rubiaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Semi evergreen
- Habit
- Bushy
- Genus
Coffea are a genus of flowering shrubs or small trees, native to tropical and southern Africa and tropical Asia. The seeds of some species are more commonly known as coffee beans and the white flowers are highly fragranced
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Southern Africa
How to grow
Cultivation
Under glass grow in a freely-draining, loam-based potting compost. Provide partial shade, moderate humidity and protect from draughts. Water freely during the growing season and apply a balanced liquid feed every two weeks; water moderately in winter. Repot every 2-3 years in spring
Propagation
Propagate by sowing fresh seed. Germination may be erratic
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Houseplants
- Conservatory and greenhouse
Pruning
See pruning group 9
Pests
May be susceptible to glasshouse red spider mite
Diseases
Get involved
The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.