The Continuing Research into Excelsa, Liberica and Libex Coffee Hybrid Species as Climate-Smart Alternatives – CoffeeTalk

As climate change impacts coffee production through rising temperatures, altered rainfall patterns, and increased pest pressures, experts and growers are exploring lesser-known coffee species for enhanced resilience, especially focusing on Arabica and Robusta, which dominate the market. Researcher Akshay Dashrath of the South India Coffee Company (SICC) emphasizes the potential of Excelsa (Coffea dewevrei), previously seen as a marginal species in Indian plantations, for better climate adaptation.

Excelsa was introduced to India in the late 1800s by a British planter. Although initially considered impractical due to its dense growth, Dashrath’s 60-year-old trees in Karnataka are now being investigated for potential commercial viability. Collaboration with the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, signifies a proactive step towards enhancing Excelsa’s role in coffee cultivation.

Senior research leader Aaron Davis from Kew notes that the prevailing dominance of Arabica and Robusta could face significant changes as new species adapted to climate variability gain prominence. Excelsa is already being cultivated successfully in Uganda and Vietnam, where farmers have reported greater productivity and profitability compared to Robusta.

Davis predicts that within the next decade, Ugandan Excelsa could become a common coffee option in supermarkets, aided by its favorable flavor profile. Additionally, other climate-resilient species, such as Stenophylla (C. stenophylla) and Liberica (C. liberica), are being examined for their potential. Stenophylla is noted for its Arabica-like flavor while offering superior heat tolerance, whereas Liberica can thrive in varying climatic conditions.

Kerehaklu coffee estate manager Pranoy Thipaiah points out that both Excelsa and Liberica benefit from longer growth cycles, allowing their harvests to be timed after the risk of unseasonal rains that often threaten Arabica crops.

Moreover, Kew’s research has identified a promising hybrid called Libex coffee (Coffea × libex), combining characteristics of Liberica and Excelsa, aimed at withstanding heat, moisture stress, and disease.

As interest in climate-resilient coffee grows, transitioning these species into mainstream cultivation will necessitate rigorous research, supportive government policies, and consumer acceptance.

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