Variety encyclopedia

Batian

Batian is a tall Kenyan composite Arabica released in 2010. World Coffee Research documents high yield, very good quality potential at high altitude, intermediate coffee-leaf-rust resistance and resistance to coffee berry disease. Its pedigree includes SL28, SL34, Rume Sudan, N39, K7, SL4 and Timor Hybrid material.

Where did it come from?

Developed by the Coffee Research Foundation, now KALRO's Coffee Research Institute, from fifth-generation selections related to Ruiru 11 breeding material.

What does it tend to taste like?

Lot-dependent; in the mixed Rianjagi washed lot it contributes to a profile Partners describes with blackberry, clementine, pomegranate, golden raisin, molasses and ginger.

Plant characteristics

Tall tree; green or bronze leaf tips; very large beans; begins production from about year two.

Why producers grow it

Combines high yield, disease resilience and strong cup-quality potential, making it useful for smallholders alongside traditional SL varieties.

Sources & further reading
  • · https://varieties.worldcoffeeresearch.org/varieties/batian
  • · https://www.partnerscoffee.com/products/kenya-rianjagi
  • · https://www.partnerscoffee.com/blogs/education/kenya-rianjagi-2026