Excelsa coffee is gaining attention as a climate-resilient alternative to the popular Arabica and Robusta species. With climate change threatening traditional coffee crops, excelsa offers a promising solution for farmers and coffee lovers alike. This lesser-known bean has been cultivated for years but is now being recognized for its ability to withstand extreme weather conditions.
• Excelsa plants have deep roots and large leaves, allowing them to retain moisture better than Arabica and Robusta.
• The plant can grow up to 40 feet tall, providing shade for other crops and promoting biodiversity on farms.
• It is currently grown in countries like India, Indonesia, and Uganda, but makes up less than 1% of the global coffee market.
• Specialty roasters are beginning to explore excelsa's unique flavor profile, which could increase consumer interest.
The rise of excelsa matters because it represents a shift towards sustainable agriculture in the face of climate change. As traditional coffee crops struggle, excelsa could help secure the livelihoods of farmers and ensure a stable coffee supply for consumers. Embracing this resilient bean could lead to a more diverse and sustainable coffee industry.
Enjoying the read? Subscribe for free to one of the fastest-growing newsletters and get weekly coffee news (TL;DR updates) delivered right to your inbox.