Coffee beans are grown in a region known as the "coffee belt," located between the tropics of Cancer and Capricorn.
Here's a breakdown:
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Geographic Location: The coffee belt encompasses areas with ideal climates for coffee cultivation. This generally includes warm temperatures, high humidity, and distinct wet and dry seasons.
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Key Regions: Coffee beans thrive in several regions around the world:
- Central & South America: This region is a major coffee producer, with countries like Brazil, Colombia, and Costa Rica renowned for their high-quality beans.
- Central Africa: Countries such as Ethiopia, Kenya, and Uganda are known for producing distinctive and flavorful African coffees.
- India: India grows both Arabica and Robusta coffee varieties, with distinct regional flavors.
- Southeast Asia: Vietnam, Indonesia, and other Southeast Asian nations have become significant coffee producers in recent years.
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Largest Producer: Brazil is currently the world's largest coffee producer, accounting for a substantial portion of global production.
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Climate Requirements: Coffee plants require specific climatic conditions:
- Temperature: Consistent warm temperatures, typically between 64°F and 70°F (18°C and 21°C).
- Rainfall: Adequate rainfall, with a distinct dry season for flowering.
- Altitude: Often grown at high altitudes, which contributes to bean density and flavor.
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Types of Coffee Grown:
- Arabica: Known for its smoother, aromatic flavor.
- Robusta: Characterized by higher caffeine content and a more robust, sometimes bitter, taste.
In summary, coffee beans flourish in tropical and subtropical regions within the coffee belt, particularly in Central & South America, Central Africa, India, and Southeast Asia, where specific climatic conditions are met.
