COFFEE

Coffea

This plant is a beautiful small tree which can also be planted as a hedge. Coffee can be difficult to grow – it needs the right balance of temperature, soil type and watering to thrive. But with its glossy green leaves and jasmine-scented white flowers that appear along the stems it's worth it. As the fruit develops, it starts off green and then changes to a bright red cherry-like fruit, finally maturing to a dark brown. Coffee beans are extracted from coffee cherries by removing the outer skin. They are then roasted, and ground.

PLANT

Late Spring.

HARVEST

Beans will be ready for your first crop of coffee between 3 - 6 years. In Spring, pick by hand or strip off the branch at one time. Size: can reach about 5 metres x 3 metres when mature.

Eat

Coffee is most commonly consumed as a beverage but coffee beans can be used

PRESERVE

Coffee beans that are roasted last up to 9 months if an airtight container, however for the best flavour they are best consumed when the beans are more fresh.

RECIPES

Make these chocolatey cookies with espresso grounds.