Liberica : an obscure, mostly unknown coffee

Even though coffee lovers are divided between the two basic coffee varieties, Arabica and Robusta, there is a third variety, mostly ignored by coffee enthusiasts. Representing less than 1% of world coffee production, Coffee Liberica is yet to be discovered.

As its name suggests, the origins of this plant are in Central and West Africa, since it is an endemic coffee variety of Liberia, Uganda and Angola. Coffea Liberica trees are higher than those of the Arabica and Robusta species, as they can reach up to 18 meters in height, and the fruits are significantly larger ; moreover, Liberica beans are not symmetric, making them unique. Coffea Liberica plants thrive in tropical climates and in a jungle environment, while being resistant enough, they can survive without systematic cultivation - which has hindered them from their complete extinction, as we are about to see.

In addition to the countries of the African continent from which it originates, Liberian Coffee thrives in Southeast Asia, mainly in Philippines and Indonesia. The destruction of the Arabica plants from a fungus that affected Philippine and Indonesian coffee plantations during the late 19th century was the reason for introducing Liberica plants to these islands. Liberica is still cultivated in South East Asia, while a Philippine version of Liberica, called Barako, remains widely popular among the Filipinos.

Although not particularly popular, Liberica Coffee is characterized by special flavor and distinct aroma. During roasting and extraction, the grains of the Liberian coffee are endowed with earth and tobacco aromas, while notes of nuts and bitter chocolate are usually present. Its intense aroma and the heavy flavor of Liberica make it a special coffee that may not be very attractive to westerns, which are used to the finesse and sophisticated aromas of Arabica. Besides, the Filipinos and the Indonesians who love Liberica jokingly refer to it as “manly coffee” due to its intense taste and bitterness. Despite its strong taste and its reputation as a "heavy" coffee, Liberica’s caffeine content is lower than Robusta’s.

While in the past Liberica Coffee faced extinction (about 500 trees were left during the 1990s, mainly due to the worldwide demand for Arabica), nowadays Liberica plants thrive again. The geographical boundaries of Liberica cultivation remain largely restricted, especially in Southeast Asia. Usually, Liberica is not exported and it is mainly consumed within its producing countries or sold as a souvenir to tourists looking for unusual, exotic flavors..

There are not many chances that you will be able to find Liberica in a western shop, but if you do, give it a try! Coffee is a chance for culinary trips and unique experiences - whether we enjoy a homemade espresso, a special, expensive arabica variety or an obscure coffee from the Philippines!