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Variety encyclopedia

Java

The Java variety is a selection derived from an Ethiopian landrace population known as Abyssinia. It was initially introduced to the island of Java by the Dutch before being transplanted to Cameroon in the mid-20th century for further selection. The variety is recognized for its tall stature, good cup quality, and moderate yields. It is valued by producers for its tolerance to common coffee diseases and its ability to thrive with low fertilizer inputs.

TagsJavaArabicaEthiopian LandracesTypica
Where did it come from?

Despite the name (shared with coffee's most famous island), Java as a variety is an Ethiopian selection that passed through Java's research stations; from there it spread to Central America and Cameroon.

What does it tend to taste like?

Delicate and floral with soft fruit — a gentler Ethiopian profile in a farmable package.

Plant characteristics

Early-maturing, decent yields, good cup quality.

Why producers grow it

Ethiopian-line flavor character with better agronomics than most landraces — a practical exotic.

Sources & further reading

Editorial record last reviewed: . Sources document specific claims, not guarantees about every coffee sold under this variety name.

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