In the face of climate change and its impact on global coffee production, the rediscovery of Coffea stenophylla offers a beacon of hope for the industry. This rare species, native to West Africa, combines exceptional heat tolerance with a superior flavour profile, making it a promising candidate for future coffee cultivation.
Rediscovery of Coffea stenophylla
Coffea stenophylla, also known as highland coffee or Sierra Leone coffee, was believed to be extinct until 2018, when researchers identified several wild populations in Sierra Leone. Led by Dr. Jeremy Haggar from the University of Greenwich, Dr. Aaron Davis from the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, and development specialist Daniel Sarmu, the team embarked on a mission to locate and study this elusive species. Their efforts culminated in the discovery of approximately 300 wild stenophylla plants, providing a foundation for further research and conservation.
Climate Resilience and Superior Flavour
One of the most compelling attributes of Coffea stenophylla is its ability to thrive in higher temperatures, tolerating conditions up to 7°C warmer than those suitable for Arabica coffee. This resilience positions stenophylla as a potential solution for coffee cultivation in regions increasingly affected by global warming. Moreover, sensory evaluations have revealed that stenophylla boasts a complex and desirable flavour profile, with notes of peach, blackcurrant, mandarin, honey, jasmine, and more. In blind tastings, 81% of judges perceived its flavour as comparable to high-quality Arabica, underscoring its potential appeal to consumers.
Cultivation Efforts in Sierra Leone
Recognising the potential of stenophylla, Sucafina has partnered with local communities and researchers to reestablish this species in Sierra Leone. The initiative involves propagating seedlings in community nurseries and planting them in trial plots to assess their agronomic performance. This collaborative effort aims to provide farmers with a climate-resilient crop that offers economic benefits and contributes to the preservation of Sierra Leone's coffee heritage.
A Sustainable Future for Coffee
The successful cultivation and commercialisation of Coffea stenophylla could revolutionise the coffee industry by providing a sustainable alternative to traditional species threatened by climate change. Its unique combination of heat tolerance and superior flavour makes it a valuable addition to the global coffee repertoire. As research and development continue, Coffea stenophylla stands poised to play a pivotal role in securing the future of coffee for generations to come.